Manipur Violence Escalates, Ethnic Tension Rises

Violent clashes in several districts of Manipur, India, involving militants and state forces have resulted in multiple casualties. On 4 January, the first attack on civilians since the ethnic clashes started in 2021 took place in Lilong, a predominantly Muslim town in Thoubal district, causing four deaths and five injuries. These incidents prompted authorities to enforce a curfew in parts of the state. Kuki insurgents are believed to be behind an assault on police commandos in the border town of Moreh, injuring four officers with an RPG, after a local teacher was arrested. The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur has resulted in hundreds of deaths and the displacement of 60,000 people.