Maelstrom Manipur – From Peace to Violence -

The north-eastern Indian state of Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May 2023, primarily between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zo tribes. This conflict has resulted in over 250 deaths and displaced at least 60,000 individuals, leading to a profound humanitarian crisis. The unrest began when the Meitei community sought Scheduled Tribe status, a designation that confers specific affirmative action benefits. The Kuki-Zo tribes opposed this move, fearing it would undermine their own access to these benefits and exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities. Tensions escalated as both communities accused each other of encroachment and illicit activities, setting the stage for widespread violence.

GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSE

In response to the escalating violence, the state government imposed curfews, internet shutdowns, and deployed additional security forces in an attempt to restore order. These measures, while aimed at controlling the situation, also led to restrictions on freedom of movement and communication, impacting the daily lives of residents.

In recent months, the Centre has taken more proactive steps such as

Security Reinforcement – Deployment of more paramilitary forces and Army personnel in riot-prone zones.
Command structure moved under central authority to avoid local political interference.
Peace Dialogue Initiatives – Inter-community peace talks launched, involving civil society, religious leaders, and tribal representatives.
Rehabilitation Efforts – Improvement of relief camp infrastructure—food, water, healthcare and education.
Plans underway to help resettlement of displaced people with security guarantees.
Judicial and Investigative Action – Special investigation teams (SITs) formed to probe major incidents. Government promised fast-track courts to deliver justice to victims.
Digital and Education Support – Mobile internet restored in some areas with monitoring. Educational support launched for students affected by prolonged school closures.

PRESIDENTIAL RULE ESTABLISHED

Amid mounting criticism over his handling of the crisis, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on February 9, 2025. His tenure had been marred by allegations of bias towards the Meitei community and failure to effectively address the violence. Following his resignation, the central government imposed President’s Rule in Manipur, thereby taking direct control of the state’s administration to stabilize the situation.

BUDGETARY ALLOCATIONS

In March 2025, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Manipur state budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the Lok Sabha, outlining key financial plans to address the state’s unique challenges.

The budget estimates total receipts at ₹35,368 crore and total expenditure at ₹35,104 crore. This reflects a marginal increase from the previous year’s budget estimate of ₹34,899 crore and a revised estimate of ₹32,657 crore for FY25. The budget emphasizes a balanced approach, allocating funds for both immediate needs and long-term development projects.

Recognizing the critical role of law enforcement in restoring and maintaining peace, the budget allocates ₹2,866 crore towards incentives for police personnel stationed in sensitive areas.

To support those affected by the violence, provisions include ₹15 crore for temporary shelters, ₹35 crore for housing displaced individuals, ₹100 crore for relief operations, and ₹7 crore for compensation.

Beyond the state budget, the central government has introduced additional measures to bolster Manipur’s recovery. A ₹500 crore contingency fund has been established to enhance the state’s financial resilience, ensuring readiness to address unforeseen challenges. The Lok Sabha approved supplementary demands for grants, entailing an additional ₹51,463 crore for the current fiscal year, with a portion directed towards Manipur’s recovery efforts.

CONCLUSION

Finance Minister Sitharaman assured comprehensive support for Manipur’s economic recovery, noting improvements in the law and order situation and reaffirming the central government’s commitment to the state’s development. Parties like the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Janata Dal (United) have labeled the budget as “inadequate” and “not fully satisfactory,” arguing that the allocations may fall short in addressing the extensive challenges arising from the ethnic violence. It is yet to see how this budget allocation and presidential rule would affect the situations in Manipur.

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