According to The Economic Times, at least 40 people were injured due to violent clashes between locals and the Indian army in the northeastern state of Manipur. The clashes erupted in the Bishnupur district when local people from the Kuki tribe violated a curfew and attacked barriers set up by soldiers on highways. During the confrontation, the army used tear gas and rubber bullets against the protesters. The report mentioned that residents attempted to remove the barriers, claiming they hindered movement and gatherings with relatives. Local authorities urged the residents of Bishnupur to remain calm and refrain from disturbing the peace.
The situation has significantly escalated in the region after migrants from the Meitei tribe demanded to be granted "scheduled tribe" status, which provides certain privileges including advantages when applying for jobs in government institutions and when enrolling in higher education, among other benefits. This demand has sparked protests among the Kuki tribe, which constitutes 56% of the state's population, as they consider such a request an infringement on their rights.
