Additional Paramilitary Forces Deployed to Manipur Amid Rising Ethnic Violence

Heightened violence between Meitei and Kuki communities has led to additional paramilitary deployments in Manipur, as the government attempts to stabilize the volatile situation amid threats against CRPF personnel and community unrest.

In response to a surge in ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur, the Union government has deployed 20 additional paramilitary companies—around 2,500 personnel—to the state. This reinforcements primarily consist of CRPF units, along with BSF contingents, to stabilize the "challenging situation" and address security threats against the CRPF. These forces are positioned at sensitive locations to prevent further violence and strengthen area control.

The recent escalation follows reports of abductions and targeted attacks, intensifying tensions. On Monday, a Meitei woman, her daughters, and grandchildren were abducted, and in a separate incident, a Hmar tribal woman was allegedly raped and murdered by a Meitei group member. Following the abduction, Manipur MP Sanajaoba Leishemba urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for intervention, highlighting the deteriorating conditions.

Last week also saw a major confrontation when militants assaulted a CRPF post and a police station sheltering displaced Meiteis. At least 10 militants, claimed to be “armed village volunteers” by local Kuki and Hmar groups, were killed in the clash, although police have disputed these claims.

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Amid rising hostilities, the Kuki Students Organisation urged tribal communities to avoid cooperation with the CRPF, calling for resistance against paramilitary presence. This sentiment was echoed in protests across hill districts demanding CRPF withdrawal, with security officials cautioning all forces to exercise restraint but allowing for defensive measures if attacked.