On May 3, 2023, Manipur, a northeastern state in India, was rocked by violent protests that led to property damage and loss of life. The All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) organized a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ in the Torbung area of Churachandpur district to protest against the demand of non-tribal Meiteis for Scheduled Tribe status, which led to clashes and fighting between communities. While the police were unwilling to confirm the exact number of casualties, sources reported that more than a score of people died, and many were injured.
India Today’s NorthEast team visited the affected areas in the state and witnessed the aftermath of the violence. Schools, houses, churches, vehicles, and public properties were set ablaze by the violent protesters. In one incident, a children’s home, where 19 children were taking shelter, was also set on fire, leaving the children without a place to stay. The violence caused immense damage to the infrastructure, including the burning of hundreds of vehicles in Langol and the destruction of a kindergarten school, one church, and many houses in Haokip Veng.
In response to the unrest, the government imposed Section 144 in violence-affected areas and snapped mobile internet services. Additionally, 14 companies of paramilitary forces were deployed in the violence-hit state, and the Centre dispatched additional security forces and anti-riot vehicles to maintain peace. Around 1,000 more central paramilitary personnel with anti-riot vehicles reached Manipur on Friday.
The aftermath of the violence can still be seen in every corner of Imphal city, where vehicles were set on fire, and flames could still be seen in some places. Although the situation appears to be under control, mobs are continuing to protest in some areas, leading to security personnel using tear gas to quell the unrest and restore order.
In conclusion, the violent protests in Manipur have caused significant damage to property and infrastructure, including schools, houses, churches, and public properties, and have led to the loss of precious lives. It is crucial to maintain peace and restore normalcy in the affected areas. The government must take strict action against those responsible for the violence and ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future.
