New Delhi: Manipur is facing an escalating crisis fueled by ethnic violence, reminiscent of situations observed in East Timor and South Sudan, as divisions deepen and violence continues unabated. The state government has taken drastic measures, such as closing educational institutions and imposing curfews, in an attempt to manage the unrest.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the decision to close all schools, colleges, and universities came amid rising chaos. The recent discovery of five family members’ bodies, including two children, has further intensified the violence between ethnic groups. This development has led to the imposition of curfews in the Imphal West and Imphal East districts and the suspension of Internet services in seven districts.

The victims, who were abducted from a relief camp in Jiribam’s Borobekra area on November 11, were found in the Jiri River in Jiribam and the Barak River in Assam’s Cachar district. These incidents have ignited unrest in areas like Jiribam, previously known for their ethnic diversity and relative peace until tensions surfaced in June after a farmer’s body was found mutilated.

In Imphal, the state capital, security has been bolstered, particularly around Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s residence and the Raj Bhavan. Movement has been heavily restricted in affected areas to curb further violence. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized the BJP-led Indian government’s handling of the crisis, specifically targeting Home Minister Amit Shah.

The ongoing violence in Manipur has resulted in hundreds of deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands, as deep-seated community divisions and perceived government inaction exacerbate the situation.