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Explainer: How demand for inclusion of Meiteis in ST list snowballed into violence in Manipur

he demand for inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list has been a contentious issue in Manipur for several years.

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Explainer: How demand for inclusion of Meiteis in ST list snowballed into violence in Manipur
Photo:-Twitter/@MangteC/KPnews

Guwahati: The northeastern state of Manipur has been in the news recently due to the violent clashes that erupted between the police and the protestors demanding the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list. The protests, which started peacefully, soon turned violent, resulting in the death of several people, including police personnel.

In this article, we’ll try to understand the demand for the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list, why it has become a contentious issue, and how it led to violence in Manipur.

What is the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list?

The Scheduled Tribe (ST) list is a classification of indigenous people in India who are recognized by the government and given special privileges and protections under the Indian Constitution. The ST list includes more than 700 tribes from various states in India, and being included in this list provides certain benefits, such as reservations in education, government jobs, and political representation.

Why are Meiteis demanding inclusion in the ST list?

The Meitei community, which is the majority community in Manipur, has been demanding inclusion in the ST list for several years. The demand for inclusion is based on the argument that Meiteis are indigenous people of Manipur and have been marginalized due to the influx of migrants from other parts of India.

The demand for inclusion in the ST list gained momentum after the recommendations of a state government-appointed committee, which submitted its report in 2016, and recommended that Meiteis be included in the ST list. However, the central government has not yet taken any action on the recommendations.

Why is the demand for inclusion in the ST list contentious?

The demand for inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list has been a contentious issue in Manipur for several reasons. Firstly, there is a fear among the other tribal communities in the state that the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list would reduce the benefits available to them. They argue that the inclusion of Meiteis would increase competition for resources and reservations, which would result in the dilution of their own benefits.

Secondly, there is also a fear that the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list would lead to the domination of the Meitei community in the state, and the other tribal communities would lose their political power and representation. The fear is that the Meitei community, which is already dominant in Manipur, would become even more powerful if included in the ST list.

How did the demand for inclusion in the ST list lead to violence?

The demand for inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list has been a contentious issue in Manipur for several years, and the protests for the same have been going on for a long time. However, things turned violent in April 2023, when a group of protestors clashed with the police, resulting in the death of several people, including police personnel.

The violence escalated quickly, and curfew was imposed in several parts of the state. The protestors blocked the highways, disrupted rail services, and attacked government buildings, resulting in widespread destruction of public property.

In conclusion, the demand for inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list has been a contentious issue in Manipur for several years. The recent violence shows that the issue needs to be resolved as soon as possible, in a peaceful and democratic manner. The government should take steps to address the concerns of all communities in the state, and work towards finding a solution that is acceptable to all.

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PM Modi Criticizes UN, Calls for Global Reforms on Lex Fridman Podcast

In a recent interview on the Lex Fridman Podcast, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong criticisms of the United Nations and similar international organizations, labeling them as “almost irrelevant” in addressing contemporary global challenges. During the extensive conversation, Modi highlighted the inadequacies of these institutions in effectively managing escalating global conflicts, such as ongoing […]

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PM Modi Criticizes UN, Calls for Global Reforms on Lex Fridman Podcast
PM Modi during a podcast of Lex Fridman, in New Delhi | Image Kind Courtesy (ANI)

In a recent interview on the Lex Fridman Podcast, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong criticisms of the United Nations and similar international organizations, labeling them as “almost irrelevant” in addressing contemporary global challenges.

During the extensive conversation, Modi highlighted the inadequacies of these institutions in effectively managing escalating global conflicts, such as ongoing wars in the Middle East and rising tensions between major powers like the United States and China.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi pointed out how the crisis exposed the limitations of individual nations and underscored the necessity for global unity and cooperation. He emphasized that the pandemic revealed significant gaps in the current international framework, calling for comprehensive reforms to enhance the efficacy of global governance.

This interview marks Modi’s second appearance on a podcast, following his earlier participation in Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s “People by WTF” series. The Prime Minister’s engagement with modern digital platforms reflects his administration’s efforts to connect with a broader audience and address pressing global issues through contemporary media channels.

The Lex Fridman Podcast, known for its in-depth discussions with prominent figures across various fields, provided a platform for Modi to share his perspectives on international relations, the role of global institutions, and the need for adaptive reforms to meet the demands of an evolving world order.

Modi’s candid remarks have sparked discussions worldwide, prompting debates on the relevance and effectiveness of international organizations in the face of current global challenges. His call for reform resonates with a growing sentiment that existing institutions must evolve to better serve the international community in addressing complex, interconnected issues.

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Maharashtra Leaders Call for Aurangzeb’s Tomb Removal Amid Legal Considerations

In recent developments, political figures in Maharashtra have advocated for the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb, situated in Khuldabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Udayanraje Bhosale, a descendant of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament, labeled Aurangzeb a “thief and looter,” urging authorities to demolish the tomb.

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Maharashtra Leaders Call for Aurangzeb’s Tomb Removal Amid Legal Considerations
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In recent developments, political figures in Maharashtra have advocated for the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb, situated in Khuldabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Udayanraje Bhosale, a descendant of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament, labeled Aurangzeb a “thief and looter,” urging authorities to demolish the tomb.

Maharashtra CM also in favor of Aurangzeb’s Tomb Removal

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed this sentiment, expressing support for the tomb’s removal but emphasizing adherence to legal protocols. He noted that the site is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), a designation made during a previous Congress-led administration. Fadnavis stated, “We all also want the same thing, but you need to do it within the framework of the law, because it is a protected site.”

In response to these calls, Maharashtra police have heightened security measures around the tomb to prevent potential unrest. The site is now under increased surveillance, with visitors required to present identification and adhere to stricter protocols.

This controversy underscores ongoing debates about historical narratives and cultural heritage in India, reflecting the complexities of addressing historical figures’ legacies within contemporary society.

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Karnataka’s Largest Drug Haul: MDMA Worth ₹75 Crore Seized in Major Crackdown

In a significant breakthrough, Karnataka police have confiscated a record-breaking consignment of MDMA valued at approximately ₹75 crore. This marks the state’s largest-ever drug seizure, showcasing law enforcement’s commitment to curbing illegal narcotics activities. Details of the Seizure During a well-coordinated operation, authorities intercepted the massive drug shipment in Karnataka’s coastal region. The contraband, identified […]

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Karnataka’s Largest Drug Haul: MDMA Worth ₹75 Crore Seized in Major Crackdown
Image by pexels-mart-production-7230226 (Representational purposes only)

In a significant breakthrough, Karnataka police have confiscated a record-breaking consignment of MDMA valued at approximately Rs.75 crore. This marks the state’s largest-ever drug seizure, showcasing law enforcement’s commitment to curbing illegal narcotics activities.

Details of the Seizure

During a well-coordinated operation, authorities intercepted the massive drug shipment in Karnataka’s coastal region. The contraband, identified as MDMA (commonly known as Ecstasy), was reportedly being smuggled into the state for distribution across major cities.

Investigation and Arrests

The police confirmed that multiple suspects have been arrested in connection with the bust. Investigators are working to uncover the broader network involved in the smuggling operation. Preliminary findings indicate that the seized drugs were intended to fuel illicit party scenes and underground markets.

Law Enforcement’s Vigilance

Authorities emphasized that this successful operation reflects their proactive approach to combat the rising threat of synthetic drug abuse. The police have intensified surveillance efforts in key regions identified as high-risk zones for drug trafficking.

Public Awareness and Safety

Officials urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Awareness campaigns are being planned to educate youth about the dangers of MDMA consumption and its harmful effects on mental and physical health.

Future Measures

Karnataka’s police department is strengthening collaborations with national and international agencies to prevent drug smuggling at its roots. This record seizure serves as a stern warning to organized crime groups involved in illicit activities.

This remarkable achievement highlights Karnataka’s unwavering stance in tackling drug abuse and ensuring public safety across the state.

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