Tribal Communities Observe Separation Day to Commemorate Two Years Since Manipur Ethnic Unrest

Tiuiṭhaphai, May 4, 2025, Virthli (ONP): The Indigenous Tribal communities of Manipur on May 3, 2025, marked the second anniversary of the May 3, 2023 ethnic violence that began in Manipur on May 3, 2023. The hill people (Zohnathlak Tlangmi) across different states and districts of India observed “Separation Day from the Meiteis”. This day was commemorated to reaffirm the call for separation from the Meitei community and to honor those who lost their lives during the conflict.

In Churachandpur District, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) organized a major event at the Wall of Remembrance, Tuibong. Simultaneous events were held at Martyrs Park in Sehken, organized by the Zomi Council, and at HSA Campus, Rengkai, where the Hmar Students' Association (HSA) Tuiṭhaphai JHQ held a candlelight vigil in memory of those killed by Meitei militants.

Image Courtesy: ITLF

Candlelight vigils and similar events were also held at various other locations, including Kangpokpi, Moreh, and other hill districts of Manipur, as well as in metro cities like Assam, Meghalaya, Delhi, and elsewhere.

At the Wall of Remembrance, Tuibong, K. Lalbiaksanga, President of MPC and Chairman of the Program Committee (ITLF), delivered the keynote address. Rev. Dr. Lalrosiem Songate, Chairman of the Hmar Christian Leaders’ Forum (HCLF), led the prayer service for the martyrs. The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) honored 22 victims who were killed by Meitei militants.

Rev. J.F. Lalropuia, Treasurer of the Goodwill Council, gave a message during the program. Henlianthang Thanglet, Chairman of the Kuki-Zo Council, and Paolienlal Haokip, MLA of 59-Saikot, also addressed the gathering. There were musical performances by Joint Artistes Association, Thianhoih, Mizo Zaimi Inzawmkhawm, Gladys Lalparzo, and a message from Central YMA was shared.

Henlianthang Thanglet reiterated that in April, a delegation had submitted a report to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi, pressing for a political solution to the crisis. He emphasized the community’s demand for a separate administration.

Paolienlal Haokip accused the Manipur government of carrying out ethnic cleansing against the hill tribes (Kuki - Zomi - Hmar). He emphasized the need for a new vision and the importance of pursuing separate administration to protect their future.

At Sehken’s Martyrs Park, a memorial program was held, attended by LM Khaute, MLA of 58-CCPur A/C; Vungzagin Valte, MLA of Thanlon A/C; and Vumsuan Naulak, Chairman of Zomi Council. Floral tributes were paid at the martyrs’ graves, followed by a prayer program led by the ZC Prayer Department.

Vungzagin Valte highlighted the role of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their people and homeland, and expressed hope that the sacrifices would lead to justice and safety for their community.

LM Khaute spoke about the ongoing peace talks between SoO (Suspension of Operation) groups and the government and expressed optimism that justice would be achieved for the Zohnathlak Tlangmi community.