Dispatches from Manipur

In season two of Dispatches from Manipur, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar will follow up on many issues that the podcast touched upon during our reportage in season one. We are at a stage where more than six months have gone by and there seems to be no respite for those affected by this war. We will be interviewing individuals who are affected by this violence to understand why is it that the Manipur state government and the central government are yet to take concrete steps to end the war. This is while we report from the ground about how the civil war between the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zomi people continues.  In episode one, we spoke to some of the most affected during the war: displaced Kuki-Zomi students who were studying in universities and colleges spread across Imphal, who had to flee from the capital city in May after they were threatened and attacked by mobs.  In our previous episodes from season one, we've heard the accounts of these students and their predicament. In this episode, we will be revisiting the problems these students continue to face, with no substantive intervention yet either from central or state authorities.  Infact, examinations are now being conducted for first year MBBS and BDS students in Imphal, while their displaced Kuki-Zomi class classmates in the hill districts have been left out. We'll be speaking to Niangngaihlian and Elizabeth, two MBBS students from Regional Institute of Medical Sciences to understand how displaced medical students are coping, in spite of receiving no support to continue their education.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 16 of "Dispatches from Manipur", Greeshma Kuthar reports on the ongoing ethnic turmoil gripping Manipur since May. She discusses the volatile situation with Meitei journalist Rōmal Lāisram, who takes us through the root causes of this violence. Rōmal's insights into the ethnic landscape of Manipur offer a unique perspective that challenges conventional narratives. Tragedy again struck on 18th August in Thowai Kuki village of Ukrul District, where three residents were shot dead today.  Despite official reassurances, the ground reports paint a different picture. In this episode, Rōmal discusses the undercurrents of ethnic violence that have plagued Manipur. Drawing from his personal experience as a half-Meitei, half-South Indian individual, Rōmal unpacks the complex dynamics of identity, culture, and conflict in this region. He delves into the historical origin myths that have both united and divided the Meitei and Kuki-Zo and Naga communities, shedding light on how these stories shape the perceptions of both groups. With an astute analysis, Rōmal examines the role of Vaishnavism and the Varna system in exacerbating tensions within Manipur's society. He skillfully navigates through the evolution of discrimination, discussing the subtle yet impactful ways caste-based beliefs have been woven into daily life, even as Manipur modernized. This conversation unearths uncomfortable truths about racism, showcasing how notions of purity and pollution have influenced interpersonal relationships, and exploring the dichotomy between urban and rural perspectives. Join us as we uncover the layers of Manipur's history, examining the roots of prejudice and division, while also celebrating the pockets of unity that continue to thrive. Rōmal's thought-provoking insights challenge us to confront uncomfortable realities, fostering a much-needed dialogue. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this intricate region's past and present.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In this episode of Dispatches from Manipur, Greeshma Kuthar speaks to Kimneijou, Kimneineng and Kimmoui (women leaders from the Kuki-Zo community) about the various incidents of gendered violence that happened after the onset of the ethnic violence on May 3, that are now being revisited internationally. The women leaders discuss ethical reportage of sexual assault in the context of ethnic violence, the role of the state and the police in these cases, and how the victims are being supported. They also talk about how heightened media coverage is re-traumatizing the survivors of sexual assault. Greeshma also spoke with Luikang Diana , the joint secretary of Senapati District Women's Association - a Naga organisation - during a rally organised in Senapati town condemning the mob violence and sexual assault of Kuki-Zo women at B Phainom.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In this episode, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar delves into the ongoing turmoil in Manipur, with a focus on the Phaileng buffer zone, a critical border between the Kangpokpi hill district and Imphal Valley. The region continues to witness frequent firing as armed Meitei groups attempt to breach the border, leading to confrontations with central forces. Additionally, we shed light on the dire situation of Kuki-Zomi prisoners at Sajiwa Central Prison in Imphal, where close to 200 Kuki prisoners are allegedly facing threats and safety concerns. Tragically, we unravel the haunting tale of Hanglalmuan Vaiphei, a young man who died in police custody under mysterious circumstances, raising questions about custodial killings. As we discuss the urgent need for resolution, it becomes evident that both the central and state governments must address these pressing issues to quell the violence and ensure justice for the affected communities.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In July in a span of 10 days, two women were tragically shot and killed in the capital city of Imphal in Manipur. Hangzo Donggaihching was a member of the Kuki-Zo community and lived alone in a small makeshift hut in the Lamphel area of Imphal. She was shot dead in broad daylight on July 6th in Kwakeithel, Imphal West. Hangzo Donggaihching had an intellectual disability and had no surviving family. Lucy Marim, belonging to the Maring Naga tribe, was abducted from Sawombung area and later found shot dead on July 15th in Lamlai, Imphal East district. The United Naga Council, representing Nagas in Manipur has issued a statement strongly condemning her killing. However this has not garnered much outrage from groups outside Manipur. In this episode, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar interviews Dr. Aiswarya Rao, a disability rights activist from Tamil Nadu, who discusses the specific killings and the broader issue of ethnic violence. Greeshma also speaks with Professor Sonajharia Minz, the Vice-Chancellor of Sido Kanhu Murmu University in Jharkhand, about the urgent need for collective action to address the ongoing violence in Manipur and put an end to it before more lives are lost.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In episode 12 of Dispatches from Manipur, Greeshma gives a round up of the situation on the ground. As Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s visit of the State commenced, violent attacks continued in parts of Manipur. Greeshma spoke to an independent journalist Akash Hassan on what he saw & experienced reporting from Manipur & why the attempts to bring back normalcy are not panning out.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

Since May 3, the conflict in Manipur has close to 70,000 displaced & over 120 dead. In episode 11 of Dispatches from Manipur, two students spoke to independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar, on their disrupted academic future and challenges they are currently facing.  She spoke to Kim Neilhang, a final year LLM student from the Department of Law, Manipur University & Elizabeth Nengneilhing MBBS student of Regional Institute of Medical Sciences commonly known as RIMS.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In episode 10, Greeshma explores the aftermath of ethnic violence in Saikul's Khamenlok area. Families from 10 Kuki villages faced chaos and heavy rains, fleeing into the forest as mobs approached. In this episode, you will hear to Kimneo, a single mother, and her daughter Lhingneihal's harrowing journey of survival and separation.  The episode highlights the lasting impact of conflict on women and children. It also emphasizes the urgent need for the central government to address the immediate consequences of the ongoing ethnic violence and help begin the process of healing and recovery within the affected communities.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 9, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar reports from Phaileng, a village located at the border of Kangpokpi and Imphal West. This area has witnessed multiple armed attacks, which have been pushed back by the Assam Rifles. They've now created a buffer zone here to keep violence at bay.  Greeshma speaks with Haominthang, the chief of Phaileng, Moi, a leader from Motbung and official sources to stitch together how communities are now working together to secure the border stretching across Gamgiphai.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 8, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar examines the recent escalated violence in Khamenlok of Saikul area, the status of the internally displaced, and how the relief camps are managing the influx in Saikul. Even with the reports of more villages burning, there is a wide expectation among the affected tribes on the Union Home Minister Amit Shah's promise for intervention from the Central forces to control the situation. In this episode, Greeshma chronicles the account of Thangkhongam Touthang, an elder of D Leikop village where the officials reported that the Gorkha Regiment tried to contain the situation. She also speaks with Manoj Prabakar, SP of Kangkopki.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 7, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar gets the first-hand account of a young woman who escaped Khopibung village in Saikul sub-division of Kangpokpi district on June 12and what she witnessed on June 13. The ethnic violence in Manipur, which began on May 3, has reportedly forced nearly 40,000 people to displace internally. This episode contains graphic descriptions of violence and distress. Listener discretion is highly recommended. Lucy Chongloi describes the incidents of her village burning down on June 12 and whatfollowed. She also shows the video she had shot of Khopibung on June 13, the day after it was burnt and vandalised. Greeshma also speaks with Chongboi Khongsai, the secretary of the Kuki Women’s Union – Dongsum branch, about how relief is being coordinated at Dongsum. Greeshma was able to verify the metadata of the images and video shared by Lucy Chongloi.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 6, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar reports from the ground about the burning of Khopibung, a Kuki village in the Saikul sub-division of Kangpokpi district on June 12. Since May 3, nearly 70 villages have been burnt down in Saikul assembly constituency. Khopibung was burnt down by a large Meitei mob leaving many, including officers from the Gorkha Regiment injured. This episode contains graphic descriptions of violence and distress. Listener discretion is highly recommended. Greeshma speaks with Lun, media and security coordinator of Saikul sub-division, Kangpokpi relief committee; Hengah, a survivor from Bongbal Khullen, a village east of Imphal; Lunginthang Khonthang and Haoboi, who were injured during the June 12th attacks on Khopibung.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

Episode 5 chronicles a survivor's tale of unimagined horror and a timely escape in the early days of the ethnic violence that has persisted in Manipur since the first week of May. This episode contains graphic descriptions of violence and assault. Listener discretion is highly recommended! Independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar speaks with a young woman, an Imphal resident, who was allegedly kidnapped by the Arambbai Thenggol, mobbed, and beaten up by her captors for nearly 12 hours. Her persistence to survive and timely help from a Meitei Muslim (Pangal) auto driver perpetuated her safe escape to her family. Her name in the episode has been changed to protect her identity and safety.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In Episode 4, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar critically examines the role of media — the fourth pillar of democracy — to report the realities of the Manipur ethnic violence, which began on the first week of May.  Greeshma spoke with Kaybie Chongloi, the only Kuki journalist from the Hill District of Kangpokpi, and with a woman survivor to understand if the mainstream media played an unintended role in vilifying a group of people through its coverage. Even as the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, visited Manipur and requested a 15-day peace period with the leaders of the Hill tribes, there had been violence in parts of the state. Misinformation or no information about the ground realities of the internally-displaced people, the violence, the death and the destruction have left those affected in angst and despair. Greeshma also takes a first-hand look at the situation in the Kangpokpi district with a Kuki woman leader who chose to remain anonymous.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In episode 3 of 'Dispatches from Manipur', independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar takes a first-hand look at the state of relief camps for hill tribes — how the civil society manages the relief, the lack of support from State and Central governments, and the experiences of those internally displaced. We want to issue a trigger warning as this episode contains distressing and harrowing experiences. The listener's discretion is encouraged. More than 38,000 people have been displaced internally due to the ethnic violence that has engulfed Manipur since the first week of May. At least 10,000 displaced people are in 46 relief camps in the Kangpokpi district alone. Greeshma visits the office of the District Relief Committee in Kangpokpi, where she speaks with NS Gangte, Secretary of the Kangpokpi District Relief Committee and a woman leader from the committee. At present, the relief camps for the Kuki-Zo people are equipped only to provide essential support. With a lack of funding or financial aid, pregnant and lactating mothers and those with chronic illnesses are in a dire and critical state.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In this episode of Dispatches from Manipur, independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar bears witness to the escalating distrust & fear between communities forcing residents of Kangpokpi District to guard the NH2 (Imphal-Dimapur) highway. With the help of first-person accounts, she captures the angst of the people affected by the violence & why they are choosing to continue to guard the highway & check every vehicle passing by.  Only a few days ago, the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) had, in response, to an appeal by Home Minister Amit Shah lifted the blockade for seven days allowing passage of essential supplies such as commodities and medicines. However, protracted violence, including one on June 9, where three Kuki villagers were killed meant that distrust among communities has only intensified.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.

In this first episode, Independent journalist Greeshma brings a first-hand account of a teacher and headmistress of the only school in her village in Manipur. She recounts how she rescued herself as well as her students and residents from her village in the first week of May 2023. We will be keeping her identity anonymous and have changed her voice to protect her from any repercussions.See sunoindia.in/privacy-policy for privacy information.