Ethnic tensions and violence in the state of Manipur, India, has left at least 54 people dead and hundreds injured in recent days. The crisis erupted after protests called by a student union organization following the granting of tribal status to the Meitei community, the majority in the state.
Manipur is burning! Indian media is silent. pic.twitter.com/ngHEcUWmSK
— Ashok Swain (@ashoswai) May 3, 2023
Last Wednesday, the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) launched a demonstration against the authorities for granting such status to the Meiteis, who are Hindus, and supporting the Naga and Kuki communities, who are mostly Christian. In response to the rally, the Government deployed the Army in Manipur, giving soldiers orders to open fire if necessary. An event that led directly to this crisis of violence.
Why churches of tribal people in Manipur are being destroyed only but no place of worship of majority Meitei people? pic.twitter.com/7IahGtT8Ch
— Ashok Swain (@ashoswai) May 4, 2023
In addition to the people injured and the fifty or so dead, several Christian buildings were attacked and burned in reprisals against those who support Christian communities.
A burning church in Manipur, India. pic.twitter.com/qLCdFo7hp8
— Ashok Swain (@ashoswai) May 7, 2023
