Restoring Hope and Rebuilding Lives: Helping Families Affected by Ethnic Violence in Manipur

Manipur has witnessed violence since, May 3, 2023, with clashes between tribals and non-tribal communities that have caused the deaths of numerous people. 

The conflict issues are more nuanced than what is being portrayed in the public and are characterised by a complex interplay of various factors. Factors such as ethnic groups, border issues, geopolitical considerations, migration, agriculture, forest conservation, poppy cultivation, climate, historical conflicts, governance challenges, and militant group demands influence conflict dynamics. 

From late May, LOCAL extended assistance to internally displaced people from both communities through the People's Resource Development Association (PRDA) and the Evangelical Assembly Church (EAC) in non-tribal and tribal areas, respectively. 

This support included dry rations for community kitchens, hygiene essentials, non-food items, children's food, clean drinking water, fans, solar lamps, etc. 

LOCAL then started supporting community initiatives that not only intended to support themselves but also the wider communities through a community-centred approach called Survivor and Community-Led Response (SCLR). Community groups have begun to feel recognised, confident, and proud through their voluntary mutual initiatives, and community ownership has become more apparent through the approach.

The images below reflect a few of the SCLR initiatives being carried on:

Through the campaign, our primary short-term goal is to provide school supplies to children as the new academic session begins. Moreover, our campaign extends beyond the provision of school supplies. We recognise the importance of addressing the underlying challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs). Therefore we are committed to promoting livelihood opportunities for them. These opportunities include skill development programmes in areas such as weaving, masonry, and other forms of labour, empowering IDPs to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities for the long term. 

Our ultimate goal is to foster peace and harmony in Manipur, paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity. To achieve this ambitious goal, we are actively engaging with a diverse array of stakeholders, including civil society leaders, representatives from militant groups, and individuals advocating for the rights of displaced communities.

To ensure a neutral response, strict adherence has been ensured to the humanitarian principles and affected communities irrespective of ethnic and religious backgrounds have been supported under LOCAL’s relief efforts.