Imphal, September 27, 2025: Manipur recorded the highest number of violent crimes and rioting cases in the Northeast in 2023, according to the latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).
The sharp spike has been attributed to the ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023 between the Meitei community of Imphal Valley and tribal Kukis in the adjoining hill districts. The prolonged violence left more than 260 people dead and displaced thousands.
According to NCRB data, Manipur reported 14,427 violent crimes in 2023, compared to only 631 in 2022 and 545 in 2021. Assam, with 11,552 cases, stood second in the region.
Key Figures from Manipur (2023):
• Rioting: 5,421 cases, the highest in the Northeast.
• Arson: 6,203 cases reported.
• Crimes against Scheduled Tribes: 3,339 cases, a sharp rise from just 1 case in 2022.
• Robbery & Dacoity: 330 robbery and 1,213 dacoity cases.
• Murders & Attempted Murders: 151 murders and 818 attempts to murder.
• Kidnappings & Sexual Crimes: 89 kidnappings and 27 rape cases.
• Crimes against Women: 201 cases, a decline compared to 248 in 2022 and 302 in 2021.
The NCRB noted that Manipur also topped the list nationally in crimes against Scheduled Tribes. The figures underline the devastating impact of the ethnic clashes on the state’s law-and-order situation.
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Observers say the report highlights an urgent need for peacebuilding efforts, stronger law enforcement, and measures to restore public confidence in the state’s security apparatus.
