Imphal, May 3, 2026: Thousands of people across Manipur gathered on Sunday to participate in peace rallies and public conventions marking the third anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, in one of India’s most prolonged and complex internal conflicts.
Massive Participation, Calls for Peace
Large crowds assembled in Imphal and other parts of the state, with civil society organisations, student groups, and community leaders organising marches, prayers, and conventions. A major “People’s Convention” was convened by influential Meitei civil society body COCOMI, while several tribal organisations also observed the day as “Peace Day,” urging reconciliation and an end to hostilities.
Participants carried placards, lit candles, and observed moments of silence for victims of the violence. Speakers at the rallies emphasized unity, justice for victims, and the urgent need for political dialogue between the warring communities.
Background of the Crisis
The Manipur conflict began in May 2023 following ethnic clashes between the Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal groups in the surrounding hill districts. The violence quickly escalated into widespread arson, killings, and displacement.
More than 260 people have been killed and over 60,000 displaced since the conflict began, with entire villages destroyed and communities segregated along ethnic lines.
Despite multiple interventions, including the imposition of President’s Rule in 2025 and the formation of a new government in 2026, the situation remains fragile with periodic incidents of violence and deep mistrust between communities.
“No Justice, No Closure”
Speakers at the rallies highlighted that, even three years later, accountability remains a major concern. Many victims’ families claim that justice has been delayed, with few convictions in major cases of violence.
Human rights groups have repeatedly pointed out that thousands of displaced persons continue to live in relief camps or outside the state, unable to return due to security concerns and destruction of homes.
Continued Tensions
Recent reports indicate that Manipur continues to face instability despite government outreach efforts. The trust deficit between communities remains high, and sporadic incidents of violence continue to be reported.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has initiated dialogue efforts and visits to both hill and valley regions, but observers say these steps have yet to produce tangible reconciliation.
Political and Social Demands
Different groups continue to push competing demands:
- Meitei organisations have called for stronger security measures and action against armed groups.
- Kuki-Zo groups have demanded a separate administrative arrangement and guarantees for safety and rehabilitation.
These competing narratives have complicated efforts at a unified peace process.
A Symbolic but Crucial Moment
The third anniversary served both as a remembrance of the lives lost and a renewed call for peace. While the rallies demonstrated public desire for normalcy, analysts warn that without concrete political solutions, justice mechanisms, and rehabilitation efforts, lasting peace in Manipur may remain elusive.
Conclusion:
Sunday’s peace rallies underscored both hope and frustration—hope for reconciliation after years of violence, and frustration over the lack of justice and resolution. As Manipur enters the fourth year of the crisis, the path forward will depend heavily on sustained political dialogue, accountability, and rebuilding trust between divided communities.
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