Manipur 2024: A Year of Despair and Uncertainty

As the year 2024 comes to a close, Manipur remains a region fraught with grief, violence, and despair. What began as localized unrest soon spiraled into a protracted ethnic conflict, leaving deep scars on the social fabric and revealing the glaring inadequacies of the state and central governments. The events of this year will be remembered not only for the suffering inflicted but also for the systemic failures that exacerbated the crisis.
At the heart of Manipur’s turmoil lies the ethnic divide between the Meitei and Kuki communities. While the roots of the conflict extend back decades, this year’s violence exploded in unprecedented ways. Reports of clashes, arson, and targeted killings dominated headlines, while tens of thousands were displaced from their homes. Refugee camps, hastily erected in both the valley and the hills, became overcrowded, undersupplied, and a painful reminder of the state’s inability to protect its citizens.
The state machinery proved woefully unprepared to handle the escalating crisis. Law enforcement agencies were either overwhelmed or accused of partisanship, deepening mistrust among the affected communities. In some areas, local militias filled the power vacuum, operating with impunity and perpetuating the cycle of violence. The government’s response — or lack thereof — often seemed indifferent, if not complicit. Public confidence in Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s administration plummeted, with many calling for his resignation. Yet, his tenure persisted, adding to the perception that political considerations outweighed the welfare of the people.
The failure of the central government to address the crisis further compounded the problem. Despite repeated pleas for intervention, the central leadership appeared hesitant to act decisively. Deployments of paramilitary forces and curfews provided only temporary relief, as the deeper issues of governance, justice, and reconciliation went unaddressed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence for much of the year drew widespread criticism. His eventual statements lacked the urgency and empathy demanded by the situation, leaving many to question the sincerity of the government’s commitment to peace.
One of the most shocking aspects of the year was the targeting of women and children during the conflict. Horrific incidents of sexual violence surfaced, shaking the conscience of the nation. These crimes not only show the brutality of the violence but also highlighted the vulnerability of women in conflict zones. Yet, justice remained elusive for many victims, as the justice system faltered under the weight of political interference and bureaucratic inefficiency.
Civil society played a crucial role in documenting the horrors of this year and advocating for peace. Organizations such as COCOMI, AMUCO, and various student unions mobilized protests, relief efforts, and dialogue initiatives, often stepping into roles abandoned by the state. However, the challenges they faced were immense, from threats of violence to the near-impossible task of bridging deeply entrenched divides.
The year also saw the emergence of stark media narratives, with national outlets often failing to present the nuanced realities of the conflict. Meanwhile, local journalists operated under dangerous conditions, navigating threats from both state and non-state actors. Their courage in bringing the truth to light deserves commendation, even as the broader media landscape remains tainted by bias and negligence.
The economic toll of the violence has been devastating. With businesses destroyed, transportation disrupted, and agricultural activities abandoned, livelihoods have been severely affected. The imposition of internet shutdowns for extended periods further isolated Manipur from the rest of the world, crippling e-commerce, education, and essential communications. For a state already struggling with underdevelopment, the events of 2024 have pushed the economy into a dire state.
Education, too, has been a casualty of this year’s turmoil. Schools and colleges in conflict zones remained closed for months, denying thousands of children their right to learn. The psychological impact on young minds, growing up amidst violence and displacement, will undoubtedly have long-term repercussions. Despite efforts by some institutions and NGOs to provide alternative learning spaces, the damage to Manipur’s education system is profound.
The events of 2024 have left an indelible mark on Manipur. The year exposed the fragility of governance, the depths of human suffering, and the resilience of those who continue to hope for a better future.