In response to ongoing violent clashes between warring ethnic communities in Manipur, the state government has ordered all schools to remain shut due to security concerns. The violence between the Meitei and Kuki tribes has resulted in at least five deaths, including one civilian. The conflict, which revolves around economic benefits and government job and education quotas, has been ongoing for over a year.
The latest spurt of violence occurred in the district of Jiribam, located on the border with Myanmar, where armed groups from both communities engaged in clashes and exchange of gunfire. The police responded to the attacks and successfully repelled the armed militants.
In a bid to protect the safety of students and teachers, the government decided to keep all schools closed in the state. The conflict has led to the division of Manipur into two enclaves, controlled by the Meiteis in the valley and the Kukis in the hills. The use of drones to drop explosive devices in recent attacks has raised concerns, with authorities describing it as a significant escalation.
The violence in Manipur has resulted in over 225 deaths and displacement of around 60,000 people since it began last year. The tension between the two communities escalated after a court ordered the state government to share benefits enjoyed by the Kukis with the Meiteis, sparking further unrest. The situation remains volatile, with the government taking measures to ensure the safety of its residents in the face of continued violence.
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