Officials have confirmed that the death toll in the recent violence in Manipur has risen to 54, although unofficial sources suggest that the number is much higher. Despite this, Imphal Valley has returned to a somewhat normal state, with most shops and markets reopening and vehicles returning to the roads.
Security forces are highly visible across major areas and roads in the city, as more army troops and central police forces have been flown in to support local authorities. In total, 13,000 people have been rescued and relocated to safe shelters, including army camps in Churachandpur, Moreh, Kakching, and Kangpokpi districts.
However, sporadic incidents of arson and attempts at blockades have been reported in Imphal East and West districts. The violence began during a Tribal Solidarity March, which was organised by the All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM) to protest against the demand of Meiteis for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
The march was allegedly attacked by an armed mob, which then led to retaliatory attacks in the valley districts, escalating the violence throughout the state. Meiteis represent around 53% of the population and mainly live in the Imphal Valley, while tribals (including Nagas and Kukis) account for 40% of the population and mainly live in the surrounding hill districts.
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