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Politics
India Struggles to Resolve Manipur Crisis, Says Abhijit Iyer‑Mitra
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 04 Nov 2026, 10:36 AM
👁 16
Abhijit Iyer‑Mitra attributes Manipur's persistent unrest to identity politics, Chinese weapon influx and echoes of Kashmir tensions, arguing that these factors hinder a lasting solution.
The northeastern state of Manipur has long been a flashpoint for ethnic conflict, insurgency and sporadic violence. In a recent commentary, political analyst Abhijit Iyer‑Mitra highlighted that the root causes of the unrest remain deeply entrenched.
Iyer‑Mitra points to identity politics as a key driver, noting that competing claims of ethnic and religious belonging fuel mistrust among communities. He argues that state policies have often failed to address these divisions, allowing grievances to fester.
The analyst also raises concerns over the influx of Chinese arms along the porous borders. He suggests that the availability of weaponry has emboldened militant groups, complicating peace efforts.
Finally, Iyer‑Mitra draws parallels with the Kashmir situation, stating that the echo of separatist sentiment in Manipur creates a climate of suspicion and hampers dialogue. He concludes that without addressing these intertwined issues, India will struggle to find a durable solution for Manipur.
Iyer‑Mitra points to identity politics as a key driver, noting that competing claims of ethnic and religious belonging fuel mistrust among communities. He argues that state policies have often failed to address these divisions, allowing grievances to fester.
The analyst also raises concerns over the influx of Chinese arms along the porous borders. He suggests that the availability of weaponry has emboldened militant groups, complicating peace efforts.
Finally, Iyer‑Mitra draws parallels with the Kashmir situation, stating that the echo of separatist sentiment in Manipur creates a climate of suspicion and hampers dialogue. He concludes that without addressing these intertwined issues, India will struggle to find a durable solution for Manipur.