Manipur, a state in the northeastern part of India, has been experiencing ethnic conflict since May 2023, with more than 250 people killed and extensive displacement. The conflict mainly consists of the Meitei community residing in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal groups from the hill areas around it. With the aim to regain normality, Union Home Minister Amit Shah ordered the granting of “free movement” through all corridors of the state from March 8, 2025, with stern action against those perpetuating disruptions.
Resumption of Bus Services and Subsequent Attack
On the inaugural day of this “free movement,” inter-district bus services resumed under heavy security. A convoy of central forces, including the army, escorted buses from Imphal Airport. The Churachandpur-bound bus traveled through Bishnupur district without incident, reaching Kangvai safely. Similarly, the Senapati-bound bus encountered no obstructions up to Kanglatongbi in Imphal West district.
However, in the Gamgiphai area, a mob attacked a passenger bus bound for Senapati district by pelting it with stones. Security forces responded with tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to some demonstrators. This incident underscores the challenges in ensuring uninterrupted movement amid ongoing tensions.
Arrests and Weapon Recoveries
Concurrently, security forces intensified operations against insurgent activities. Seven members of banned outfits were arrested across various districts. In Lamphel, Imphal West district, two cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG) were apprehended, and another member was caught near the Bir Tikendrajit International Airport. Authorities recovered ₹50,000 from the individuals in Lamphel.
In independent operations, two cadres of the Kanglei Yaol Kanna Lup (KYKL) have been arrested by security personnel in the India-Myanmar border area along the Lokchao River in Tengnoupal district. These arrests are a continuation of efforts to eliminate insurgent networks and achieve peace.
Also, after a two-week ultimatum for the surrender of looted and illegal weapons on a voluntary basis, security personnel seized close to 114 weapons, such as assault rifles, grenades, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), from different districts like Bishnupur, Senapati, Thoubal, Jiribam, Chandel, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Imphal East, and Imphal West. The government had guaranteed that no disciplinary action would be taken against individuals who turned in their guns within the time frame provided, reiterating this as one last chance to facilitate peace and harmony among people.
Ongoing Challenges
The increase in weapons has largely contributed to the ethnic strife in Manipur. According to reports, over 6 lakh bullets and nearly 3,000 weapons remain in the possession of various groups. This vast stock has fueled tensions and rendered it extremely difficult to establish peace.
Despite efforts to seize illegal weapons, like the recovery of 35 weapons and warlike items in June 2023 joint combing operations, overall access to weapons continues to hinder stabilization.
The latest steps, such as the return to bus operations in security escort cover, targeted apprehensions, and recoveries of arms, all represent an overarching attempt on the part of the authorities to assert control and help bring back normalcy. Nevertheless, the longstanding ethnic polarization and the extensive carryover of illicit firearms imply that long-term peace in Manipur will have to be built by continuing and multiple-faceted measures.
