Why are the Kudmis protesting repeatedly? What are their demands? Before breaching the subject, it is pertinent to take a look at the recent developments in Manipur. The state has a population of around 35 lakhs, with Meitei, Naga and Kuki being the three largest communities. Mostly Hindu Meities are the largest community by population, while the Nagas and Kukis are classified as Scheduled Tribes and largely follow Christianity. Meiteis dominate political representation with a population share of around 70 per cent. This community has been demanding an ST status, insisting that they had been classified as tribals before 1949 when Manipur was merged into the Union of India. However, the Naga and Kuki tribes have opposed the Meteis’ demands, arguing that the latter community does not qualify as an ST and they already enjoy reservations under the OBC and SC categories. If the Meiteis are granted the ST status, this would reduce jobs and higher opportunities for the other tribes of the state, the opponents of their demand claim.