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8 September 2026

Manipur ethnic conflict and armed groups

The topic addresses critical internal security challenges, the rise of non-state armed groups, and federal governance issues in the context of ethnic conflict, which are core themes for UPSC Mains.

1 min read Day 78 of 82 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Ethnic conflict between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in Manipur began on May 3, 2023.
  • The conflict has resulted in over 300 deaths and the displacement of more than 62,000 individuals.
  • Emergence of armed civilian groups, termed 'village volunteers', in both hill and valley regions.
  • Arambai Tenggol, based in the Imphal Valley, is identified by security analysts as a radicalised armed militia, though it claims to be a socio-cultural revivalist group.
  • The State government has not designated these groups as banned organisations.
  • Legal action against individuals is pursued based on specific criminal activities rather than organisational affiliation.
  • The State government has adopted a policy of not prosecuting individuals for non-heinous crimes, excluding cases involving attacks on security forces, extortion, and murder.
  • The Manipur police force is currently undergoing efforts to restore morale and operational strength following the crisis.

Part of a longer story

This is day 78 of 82 in Election Commission of India electoral roll revision exercises, which has been running since 21 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. The proliferation of non-state armed groups in conflict-prone regions poses a significant challenge to internal security. Discuss the implications of such groups on the rule of law and the state's monopoly on the legitimate use of force. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Ethnic conflicts in border states often lead to the emergence of vigilante groups and the erosion of institutional trust. Analyze the role of the state in balancing law enforcement with social reconciliation in the aftermath of prolonged civil unrest. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. With reference to the recent ethnic conflict in Manipur, which of the following statements regarding the 'village volunteers' is correct?