Members of the Meitei community staged a sit-in protest in Pune, Maharashtra, demanding an immediate end to the ongoing violence in Manipur, their native state. The ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have claimed over 100 lives since May 3, triggered by a Tribal Solidarity March opposing the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
With Meiteis comprising 53 percent of Manipur's population and residing primarily in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis make up 40 percent and reside in the hill districts, the protesters gathered near the Collector's office, organized by Meitei Nupi Lup, Pune. Expressing their discontent, they highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence despite 50 days of violence resulting in over 100 deaths and the displacement of 60,000 people.
Describing the grim situation, the protesters mentioned daily reports of heavy firing, a war-like environment with multiple security forces, mob gatherings, and clashes. They called for immediate action from the central and state governments and observed a minute of silence to honor the victims. In addition, the protesters raised concerns about the prolonged closure of educational institutions, the two-month internet shutdown, and the rising prices of essential commodities.
The Meitei Nupi Lup, Pune, submitted a memorandum to the Pune collector, addressed to the Prime Minister, urging peace in Manipur. During the protest, participants displayed placards with messages directed towards Prime Minister Modi, pleading for intervention and the preservation of Manipur's harmony. The protesters also emphasized the need to bridge the divide between the hill and valley regions and halt deforestation in the state. The release further highlighted the experiences of the displaced Meisnam family from Churachandpur, who shared their stories of the destruction of their homes.
