The escalating ethnic violence in Manipur, compounded by the influx of migrants from Myanmar, has drawn sharp concern from India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar. Speaking to the Indian community in Seoul, Jaishankar termed the situation “distressing” despite extensive efforts by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre to foster development in the northeastern region.
Highlighting the transformation in the northeast over the past decade, Jaishankar emphasized the need to fully explore the region’s potential. He lamented the eruption of tensions in Manipur, citing it as a setback despite significant investments and attention from the government.
Addressing recent developments, Jaishankar referenced the approval of a Semiconductor project in Assam by the Union Cabinet as a testament to India’s prioritization of the northeast. However, he acknowledged the ongoing strife between the Meitei and Kuki tribal communities in Manipur, which has persisted since May 2023.
Jaishankar also drew parallels between India’s relationships with neighboring countries, noting the positive developments with Bangladesh and Bhutan contrasted with the suspension of the Free Movement Regime with Myanmar due to tensions. He underscored the importance of strengthening border security measures in light of recent events.
In response to the crisis in Manipur, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the immediate suspension of the Free Movement Regime between India and Myanmar to safeguard internal security and preserve the demographic structure of northeastern states. Union Home Minister Amit Shah further announced plans to construct a fence along the entire 1643-kilometer-long Indo-Myanmar border to enhance surveillance and patrol capabilities.
Expressing solidarity with Manipur, Jaishankar described the situation as “unfortunate” and stressed the nation’s collective desire for the restoration of normalcy and law and order in the troubled state. He emphasized the need to prevent further violence and foster reconciliation among communities to ensure a peaceful future for Manipur and the northeast region as a whole.
