Manipur: Why is the state burning?

Manipur has seen violent protests after the passage of three Bills, including one on land reform. The bills have caused resentment among tribals, as they fear that the state government is instituting changes that will devolve their land rights. 

The North East state of Manipur is on the boil with eight people dead and over 30 injured due to violent protests since August 31. The protests began after the state government passed three bills in the state assembly – Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015; Land Revenue and Land Reforms (7th amendment) Bill, 2015; and Manipur Shops and Establishments (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015.

The state’s tribal community–comprising Kukis, Nagas and Zomis–allege that the recently passed bills–are anti-tribal.