Women Take Center Stage in Violence-Hit Manipur

In Manipur, women have emerged as key figures in the ongoing demonstrations, with multiple incidents showcasing their active role in various protests. The recent involvement of women protesters has disrupted the normal functioning of the state, impacting essential supplies, vehicular movement, and security operations.

One incident involved security forces attempting to nab 12 members of the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), a militant group based in Manipur. However, a mob of approximately 1,200-1,500 people, led by women, prevented their arrest. Similarly, women in Kangpokpi and Yaingangpokpi blocked army personnel from reaching an area where armed miscreants were firing weapons. Furthermore, a CBI team was stopped from entering the Manipur Police Training College by women protesters during their investigation of an arms and ammunition theft case.

These events are part of a larger trend, where women's groups from both the Kuki and Meitei communities have taken to the streets. Their protests target the state government, opposing each other and the security forces' operations to combat armed individuals and recover stolen weapons. Coincidentally, in Delhi, two demonstrations against the violence perpetrated by Meitei and Kuki groups were also led by women, held at Jantar Mantar and outside the residence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

It is noteworthy that women play a prominent role in Manipuri society across various domains. For example, Imphal, the capital city, is home to Ima Keithel (Mothers Market), the world's largest market entirely operated by women. Thousands of women engage in selling diverse products, making it a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Throughout Manipur's history, women have played a significant role in various movements of unrest. Notably, their participation during the two Nupi Lan (Women's Wars) in 1904 and 1939 remains significant. These uprisings, led entirely by women, challenged oppressive systems imposed by British colonial authorities, such as forced labor and rice exports.

In recent times, women's groups called Meira Paibis (Women with Torches) have been instrumental in organizing non-violent protests against issues like illicit liquor, drug abuse, and the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, which grants extensive powers to the Army and security forces. One prominent protest in 2004 saw 12 Manipuri women disrobing in front of the Assam Rifles headquarters to protest the alleged rape and murder of Manorama Thangjam, highlighting the grave concern for women's rights and safety.

Presently, women's groups continue to mobilize and demonstrate their influence. According to HT report, Kuki women groups have blocked parts of National Highway 2, while Meitei groups have obstructed entry points to south Manipur, particularly in Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, and Chandel. These road blockades have caused shortages of essential items, as well as hoarding and artificial scarcity. Combing operations by security forces have also faced resistance from women protesters.

Amidst the ongoing demonstrations, experts acknowledge the historical significance of women leading political agitations in Manipur. They highlight women's pivotal role in standing up against injustice, as seen in past movements such as the Nupi Lanes.

However, differing opinions and grievances exist between communities. While Meitei women accuse Kuki groups of shielding armed militants, Kuki community members express concerns about their disadvantaged position and the dominance of the Meitei community within Manipur's power structure.