Extremist groups are linked to Manipur conflict, says 14-group coalition

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. File | Photo Credit: PTI

GUWAHATI

A coalition of 14 civil society organisations in Manipur has criticised Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju for describing the prolonged violence in the State solely as a communal conflict.

The coalition, which was at the forefront of a movement that made the Centre defer the Census exercise in Manipur, said the conflict was linked to armed groups. It questioned the Centre’s approach to these groups despite failing to address the security dimensions of the crisis.

According to Manipur’s Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas, the conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023 claimed the lives of 306 people while 49 remained missing till the first week of September 2026. The conflict, initially between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities and then between the Kukis and Nagas, also left more than 60,000 people homeless.

Speaking at a conclave in New Delhi on September 27, Mr. Rijiju said the Kuki, Meitei, and Naga communities need to engage in talks for lasting peace in Manipur. “Using the military would not resolve the crisis,” he said.