Violence is on the rise in India’s northeastern state of Manipur. Shelling, bomb blasts, drone strikes, and missile attacks over the past few days have made the security situation in the state extremely worrisome. There have been attempts to loot the Manipur Rifles armoury, and there have been civilian casualties. However, the most sensational incident occurred when angry students attacked Raj Bhavan and the office of the Deputy Commissioner at Khawalay. They lowered the national flag of India and hoisted a seven-coloured flag, known as the “Gangli Pak” flag representing the seven clans of the Meitei ethnic group.
The students’ protests stemmed mainly from anger over the security system in the state. They alleged that the government has failed to handle the current crisis in Manipur. The students demanded the removal of the state security advisor Mymensingh and urged the central government to give more powers to maintain peace in the state.
During the protest, the students demanded that Chief Minister N. They tried to attack Biren Singh’s residence, following which security forces resorted to tear gas and lathi charges to bring the situation under control. Later, the students staged a sit-in in front of Raj Bhavan. A video of students lowering the Indian flag and hoisting a seven-colour flag during the protest went viral on social media and triggered strong reactions.
Along with these protests, there is also conflict between insurgent groups in Manipur. In Bishnupur, Kuki rebels have deployed long-range rockets in two residential areas. A 78-year-old man was killed and six others were injured in the drone strike. Several vehicles and infrastructure were damaged in the rebel attack.
Law enforcement agencies have retaliated against the insurgents and are dealing with insurgents who have taken shelter in mountainous areas. However, the students’ protest has further complicated the political and security situation in the state.
More than 40 armed groups are active in Manipur, including Kuki and Meitei ethnic groups. The Kuki armed groups’ military capabilities are based in Myanmar and use sophisticated weaponry.
