The recent outbreak of violence in Jiribam, Manipur, has sparked intense controversy, with serious allegations emerging against local MLA Md Achab Uddin. The apex body of Meitei civil society organizations (CSOs) in Jiribam, Jiri Apunba Lup (JAL), has accused the legislator of engineering the violence that led to the brutal killing of six Meitei women and children, including a 10-month-old infant. The tragic incident, referred to as the #JiribamMassacre, has sent shockwaves across the region.
Allegations Against MLA Md Achab Uddin
JAL has alleged that MLA Md Achab Uddin played a key role in orchestrating the unrest in Jiribam, a town that had maintained a fragile peace pact between the Meitei and Hmar/Kuki communities until the recent bloodshed. According to JAL, the violence was not spontaneous but a planned attack, with the MLA allegedly supporting armed groups to target the Meitei community.
The allegations include
Providing arms to Bengali-speaking Hmar groups to attack Meiteis.
Using his close associates to instigate violence between communities.
Influencing militant groups to break the peace in Jiribam.
The accusations have been further fueled by claims from the Hmar civil society organisation (CSO), which named three individuals as key instigators of attacks on Meiteis. Among them is Lawmsang Dulihan, a former government employee and the MLA’s PRO, who was allegedly terminated from his government job and later led violent efforts through the Indigenous Hmar Advocacy Committee (IHAC).
The Jiribam Massacre: A brutal attack on Meitei civilians
The violence in Jiribam resulted in the cold-blooded murder of six Meitei civilians, including women and children. Among the victims was a 10-month-old infant, killed in what has been described as a barbaric attack by Kuki-Hmar militants. The sheer brutality of the incident has sparked outrage among Meiteis and drawn strong reactions from civil society groups.
The Meitei Heritage Society has echoed JAL’s allegations, raising critical questions about the role of MLA Uddin in the Jiribam massacre. The group has demanded a thorough investigation into the MLA’s alleged involvement and called for justice for the victims of the violence.
Political Fallout and Growing Tensions
The accusations against Md Achab Uddin have intensified political tensions in Manipur, a state already grappling with ethnic strife. The Jiribam incident threatens to further divide communities, with calls for government intervention to prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, JAL has urged the state and union government to
Conduct an independent inquiry into the alleged role of MLA Md Achab Uddin.
Take strict action against those responsible for inciting violence.
Ensure justice for the victims of the Jiribam massacre.
The Hmar CSO’s identification of three individuals behind the attacks, including Dulihan’s leadership in IHAC, has raised further concerns about organized efforts to destabilize peace in Jiribam.
Call for Action Amidst Widespread Unrest
With the situation in Jiribam remaining tense, civil society organizations, political groups, and community leaders are urging authorities to take immediate steps to restore peace. The violence has not only deepened ethnic divides but also raised concerns about the role of politicians in fueling conflicts for personal or political gains.
