IMPHAL: The northeastern Indian state of Manipur is witnessing an escalation in separatist violence, with reports indicating the use of advanced weaponry by separatist groups. The conflict, which has been ongoing for about a year, reached a new peak in September when Kuki separatists launched a series of sophisticated attacks in the Imphal Valley.
Sources said that separatist factions in Manipur have access to a range of modern armaments. These include drones, long-range rockets, grenade launchers, rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), machine guns, and a variety of assault rifles such as M4s and AK-47s. The introduction of these advanced weapons has reportedly enabled the insurgents to effectively challenge the Indian security forces operating in the region.
In a recent incident, separatists allegedly targeted a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp located in the hilly area of Kangpokpi. The attack resulted in reported casualties among security personnel. Despite the presence of CRPF and Assam Rifles units deployed to stabilize the region, the violence has continued unabated.
The intensification of the conflict has had a profound impact on daily life in Manipur. Schools and colleges have been forced to close, and students have taken to the streets to protest the ongoing unrest. The Indian government’s efforts to restore normalcy in the state have encountered significant obstacles, with the security situation remaining volatile.
The unrest in Manipur is part of a broader pattern of separatist tensions across several Indian states, including illegally occupied Kashmir, Nagaland, and Assam. These regions have long-standing disputes with the central government, often fueled by issues related to ethnic and religious identity. The Indian government’s policies towards these minority groups have exacerbated the conflicts.
Media coverage of the situation in Manipur has sparked controversy, with allegations of underreporting the severity of the conflict. Concerns have been raised about whether the true extent of the violence and its impact on local communities are being adequately addressed by national and international news outlets.
The Indian government faces mounting pressure to address the root causes of the conflict and to implement measures aimed at achieving a sustainable resolution.
