Manipur Violence Intensifies: Drone Strikes, Rocket Attacks Rise

The image depicts the tense situation in Manipur, where recent drone and rocket attacks have escalated violence.

Manipur, a state from India’s northeastern region known as the "Seven Sisters," is once again in the spotlight due to escalating violence. The ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has claimed over 200 lives since May 2023, shows no sign of abating. In recent weeks, the situation has worsened, with militants resorting to advanced warfare techniques, including drone bombings and rocket attacks.

The Latest Surge in Violence

In early September 2024, militants launched rocket and drone attacks in Bishnupur and Imphal West districts, killing at least one person and injuring several others, including a 13-year-old girl. The violence spread to other areas like Jiribam, where five more people were killed in separate incidents. 

The use of drones to drop bombs is a disturbing new development in the ongoing conflict. These unmanned aerial devices were first spotted in Koutruk village in early September and have since been seen in various other locations. This introduction of aerial warfare has heightened the fear and uncertainty among the civilian population.

Impact on the Population

The violence has resulted in widespread displacement, with thousands of people rendered homeless. Schools have been closed, and large sections of the population are living in fear, particularly in districts near the conflict zones. In response, thousands of protesters formed human chains across five districts, demanding immediate action from the state and central governments to stop the violence.

Government and Security Forces’ Response

In the face of these increasing threats, the Manipur government has taken several measures, including deploying anti-drone systems to counter the drone bombings. Security forces have intensified operations, targeting militant bunkers in regions like Churachandpur. However, the situation remains tense, and many residents feel that central forces are not doing enough to control the violence.

Political Tensions and Ultimatums

The crisis has also led to political friction. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), representing civil society groups, has issued an ultimatum to the Indian Armed Forces, demanding decisive action against the Kuki militants. They accuse central forces of being complicit in the unrest, adding another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.

Conclusion

Manipur's ongoing ethnic conflict has reached a dangerous new phase, with sophisticated weaponry being employed in an already fragile region. The state's residents, caught between warring factions, are calling for peace, but the situation remains precarious. Without a swift and decisive response from both state and central authorities, the violence in Manipur could further escalate, prolonging the suffering of its people.