Sat May 03 06:41:44 UTC 2025: ## Manipur Marks Two Years of Ethnic Strife with State-Wide Shutdown

**Imphal/Churachandpur, Manipur, May 3, 2025** – Manipur observed a state-wide shutdown today, marking the second anniversary of the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The shutdown, impacting normal life across both the Imphal Valley and hill districts, was called by various groups to commemorate the conflict that began on May 3, 2023.

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), representing the Meitei community, enforced the shutdown in the valley districts. Simultaneously, the Zomi Students Federation (ZSF) and Kuki Students Organisation (KSO) imposed a shutdown in the Kuki-dominated hill districts.

The 2023 violence resulted in over 260 deaths, 1,500 injuries, and the displacement of more than 70,000 people, according to official figures. Today, markets remained closed, public transport was halted, and many private offices remained shut. While some private vehicles were seen on the roads in the morning, schools and colleges were closed across the state. Security forces were deployed to maintain order.

COCOMI is holding a “Manipur Peoples’ Convention” at Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal, urging large-scale public attendance. A candlelight march is also planned for the evening to remember victims.

In contrast, the Kuki community in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts observed a “Day of Separation,” demanding a separate territory. Commemorative events are scheduled at the “Wall of Remembrance” and the Sehken Burial site, both dedicated to victims of the conflict. The ongoing tensions highlight the deep divisions and the continued need for a lasting peace resolution in Manipur.

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