Advocates Rally in Detroit, Michigan, to Bring Attention to Decade-Long Violence in Manipur, India

by Samana Aslam

In a passionate display of solidarity and concern, Michigan-based advocacy groups took to the streets of Detroit to shed light on the long-standing violence in Manipur, India. The region has been embroiled in a nearly decade-long battle between two ethnic groups, the Meitei and the Kuki, over land and power.

The Kuki people, a predominantly Christian group spread across northeastern India, and the Meitei, largely a Hindu majority residing in the Imphal Valley, have been locked in conflict over territorial rights for several years. Recently, tensions escalated as the Kukis protested against the Meitei’s desire to be granted official tribal state status in the region, fearing it would strengthen the Meitei’s influence.

Adding to the complexity, illegal migration from Myanmar has further exacerbated the situation, heightening existing tensions in the area. But one incident, in particular, has sparked outrage across India and social media—a video that surfaced in May showing two Kuki women being forced to walk naked by Meitei men.

The North American Manipuri Tribal Association, has spoken out against the violence.

“We are outraged seeing the video of Manipuri paraded naked. But you will be surprised to know this is not the first time. You’ll be tired of scrolling but Never ending news of Dalit women getting paraded naked/raped won’t stop. Why does our collective consciousness wakes up once in a while, whereas Dalit women get paraded naked/raped regularly?

Why don’t we outrage enough? Women’s bodies are not battlefields. Let’s hold those people accountable,” said representatives of the Ambedkar Association of North America.

Their voices echoed through the streets of Detroit as they passionately called for an end to violence and oppressive acts in Manipur. The advocates emphasized the importance of raising global awareness to halt the ongoing strife in the region. Their primary goal is to pressure the local and central Indian government to uphold constitutional values and take immediate action to protect the people in Manipur.

The protesters emphasized the need for justice to be served and for individuals responsible for crimes to be held accountable. According to reports, in the last three months, the violence has resulted in the destruction of 6,200 houses and over 170 villages, leaving countless families homeless.

Representatives from the Indian American Muslim Council drew parallels to past atrocities, stating that the violence in Manipur is reminiscent of the Gujarat state massacre of 2002, where Muslims faced horrific crimes.

“If we are united — Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Hindus who don’t support hatred — we will be able to make India peaceful again,” said representatives from the Indian American Muslim Council.

Despite the gravity of the situation and the growing outcry from advocates both in India and abroad, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has remained silent on the ongoing violence in Manipur to media outlets in the region.

The rallying advocates hope that their collective voices, representing various faiths and backgrounds, will contribute to making India a more peaceful and harmonious nation. Their message echoes loud and clear—unity and compassion are the keys to ending the violence that continues to plague the region of Manipur, India.