306 killed, 49 missing in ethnic violence since May 2023: Manipur Home Minister tells Assembly

Mangalore Today News Network

Imphal, Sep 3, 2026: At least 306 people have been killed and 49 remain missing in the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in May 2023, State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam informed the Assembly on Thursday.

Konthoujam said the figures were recorded as of August 31, 2026, in response to a question raised by BJP MLA Sapam Ranjan Singh during the ongoing Assembly session.

The violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities began on May 3, 2023, following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organised in the hill districts to oppose the demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community.

Meiteis account for around 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and are predominantly based in the Imphal Valley. Tribals, including the Nagas and Kukis, make up about 40 per cent of the population and largely reside in the hill districts.

Amid the prolonged violence, President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, after the BJP-led government headed by N. Biren Singh resigned on February 9.

The 60-member Assembly, whose term runs until 2027, was placed under suspended animation following the imposition of President’s Rule.

President’s Rule was revoked on February 4, 2026, paving the way for the formation of a new government led by BJP leader Y. Khemchand Singh as Chief Minister.