In a significant move on Monday, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, declaring multiple Meitei Extremist Organisations, their factions, wings, and front groups as unlawful associations for a duration of five years.
The listed organisations encompass the Peoples’ Liberation Army (PLA) and its political counterpart, the Revolutionary Peoples’ Front (RPF); the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and its armed faction, the Manipur Peoples’ Army (MPA); the Peoples’ Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) and its armed wing, the ‘Red Army’. Furthermore, the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) and its armed wing, commonly known as the ‘Red Army’; the Kanglei Yaol Kanba Lup (KYKL); the Coordination Committee (CorCom); and the Alliance for Socialist Unity Kangleipak (ASUK), along with their respective factions, wings, and front organisations, have also been branded as unlawful associations for the next five years.
The notification, issued by the ministry, cites authority from the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, specifically the provision to sub-section (3) of section 3. Effective from Monday, November 13, 2023, for the next five years, the order aims to tackle Meitei Extremist Organisations allegedly pursuing the secession of Manipur from India through armed struggle. The MHA asserts that these groups have engaged in activities threatening India’s sovereignty and integrity, resorting to armed measures against security forces, police, and civilians in Manipur. The MHA notification reveals that these organisations are involved in intimidation, extortion, and looting to gather funds, maintaining links abroad to garner support in terms of arms and training for their separatist agenda. Additionally, these groups operate camps in neighbouring countries for shelter, training, and covert procurement of arms and ammunition. The Ministry emphasises that the activities of these Meitei Extremist Organisations pose a direct threat to India’s sovereignty and integrity, leading to their classification as unlawful associations.
Manipur Violence: A Quick Timeline of Recent Events
The Manipur violence is a complex and ongoing conflict between the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo ethnic groups in the north-eastern state of Manipur, India.
– April 14, 2023: The Manipur High Court ordered the state government to send a recommendation to the central government for the inclusion of Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribes category, a move opposed by the tribal groups who fear losing their land rights and autonomy.
– April 28, 2023: The tribal groups called for a 12-hour shutdown and protested against the state government’s survey and eviction of forest lands, which they claim as their ancestral lands. The protest turned violent when a mob set fire to an open gym that was supposed to be inaugurated by the chief minister. The police used tear gas and fired shots to disperse the crowd. Section 144 and internet suspension were imposed in several districts.
– May 3, 2023: The All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) organised a Tribal Solidarity March to oppose the Meitei demand for the ST status. The rally was attended by thousands of people from various tribal communities. Clashes broke out between the Meitei and the Kuki groups near the border of Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts, followed by arson and vandalism of houses, churches, and temples. The police and the security forces intervened to restore law and order but were accused of siding with the Meitei community and killing innocent tribals.
– May 5-6, 2023: The violence spread to other parts of the state, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes and seek shelter in neighbouring states of Mizoram and Assam. The central government deployed additional forces and urged the state government to initiate dialogue with the tribal leaders.
– May 8-9, 2023: Students from Manipur studying in various colleges and universities in Assam also fled the state, fearing for their safety. The Assam government arranged buses and trains to transport them to their hometowns.
– July 16, 2023: A video showing two women being paraded naked by a mob went viral on social media, drawing attention to the atrocities committed by the Meitei community against the Kuki women. The video sparked outrage and condemnation from various human rights groups and activists, who demanded justice and accountability for the victims.
– July 29, 2023: The Supreme Court criticised the Manipur High Court for its order on the ST status issue, saying that it was beyond its jurisdiction and violated the constitutional provisions. The apex court also expressed concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in the state and asked the central and state governments to take effective measures to end the violence and protect the lives and properties of the people.
On 7th October 2023, the Home Department of the Government of Manipur issued a crucial advisory via a letter dated 29th September 2023. Citing directives from the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 754 of 2016 (Tehseen S. Poonawalla versus Union of India & Ors) dated 17th August 2018 and 24th September 2018, the department conveyed a stern message to the public.
Image Source: Manipur Police
The communication emphasised that “Lynching and Mob Violence of any kind shall invite serious consequences under the Law.” This warning underscores the legal repercussions individuals may face if involved in such activities.
3000 Shelter Units Allocated to Aid 400 Displaced Families in Manipur
Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh at Sajiwa Jail Complex, Imphal East, inaugurated and handed over Temporary Shelter Homes for displaced families on 23 August 2023. The shelter homes, constructed under the Scheme for Providing Temporary Shelter to Displaced Families (3000 shelter units), mark a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing unrest in the State.
The event witnessed the relocation of 400 displaced families in the first phase. CM N. Biren Singh underscored the Government’s commitment to prioritising the rehabilitation of those displaced by the recent unrest. The prefabricated shelter homes near Sajiwa Jail aim to provide immediate relief to affected families. Singh highlighted the broader strategy, mentioning that while temporary shelters offer immediate respite, plans are underway to construct permanent houses at the original locations of the displaced families. “A survey has already commenced for this purpose,” he added.
Reflecting on the unfortunate incident on 3rd May this year that led to people seeking refuge in relief camps, the Chief Minister stressed the collaborative efforts of the State Government, civil society organisations, churches, women’s groups, and other stakeholders in restoring normalcy. He expressed optimism about the return to normalcy and credited the dedication of security personnel and the support from various sectors.