At least 306 people have been killed and 49 others remain missing in the ethnic violence that has continued to affect Manipur since May 2023, state Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam told the Assembly on Thursday.
Konthoujam disclosed the figures, recorded up to August 31, 2026, in response to a question raised by BJP MLA Sapam Ranjan Singh on the second day of the ongoing Assembly session.
The ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities erupted on May 3, 2023, following a Tribal Solidarity March in the hill districts of Manipur. The march was organised in protest against the demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community.
The Meiteis constitute around 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and are largely concentrated in the Imphal Valley. Tribal communities, including the Nagas and Kukis, account for roughly 40 per cent of the population and primarily inhabit the state’s hill districts.
The prolonged unrest also triggered major political changes in the state. President’s Rule was imposed on February 13, 2025, after the BJP-led government headed by N Biren Singh resigned on February 9 amid the continuing ethnic conflict.
The 60-member Manipur Assembly, whose term extends until 2027, was placed under suspended animation following the imposition of President’s Rule.
President’s Rule was subsequently revoked on February 4, 2026, clearing the way for the formation of a new government. BJP leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh subsequently became the Chief Minister of Manipur.
