Thousands of individuals remain displaced in relief camps in Manipur, India, following ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 between the predominantly Hindu Meitei community and the indigenous Kuki community, largely Christian. This violence led to over 260 deaths and left around 60,000 people seeking temporary shelter. The Indian government has announced plans to close these relief camps by December, prompting concerns among the displaced about their future.
The violence was triggered by protests from the Kuki community against demands from the Meiteis for official tribal status, a designation that would grant access to government benefits, including job quotas. Despite government assurances for rehabilitation, the situation on the ground has seen little improvement, leaving many individuals feeling precarious in their living conditions.
In July, the state’s Chief Secretary announced plans for resettlement, stating that those unable to return home would be moved to pre-fabricated housing. However, details regarding the locations of these units remain unclear, raising further anxieties. Uncertainty intensified when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Manipur and mentioned the construction of 7,000 new homes, yet provided no further specifics.
Geographically, the Meiteis and Kukis remain segregated, with tensions persisting. Security forces patrol the areas to maintain this division, as local experts warn that resettling people in their original neighborhoods is crucial to prevent deeper societal divides.
Inside the camps, many report inadequate access to promised facilities, healthcare, and mental health support, resulting in deteriorated living conditions. Some displaced individuals have begun making and selling crafts, but financial instability persists, complicating their ability to support their families. Consequently, citizens express growing doubts regarding the government’s ability to fulfill its plans by the December deadline.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c364j8r7xjgo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss