Date: 06/05/2023

Relevance: GS-3: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.

Key Phrases: Meitei community, Imphal Valley, Naga tribes, Any Kuki, Eighth Schedule, Cultural Preservation, Inter-Community Dialogue, Pro-government groups.

Context:

• Manipur has been facing unrest since February 2023, with protests against the BJP-led government's eviction drive targeting a specific tribal group.
• The demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the non-tribal Meitei community has further intensified the conflict, leading to violent protests and arson.

Background:

• The Meitei community, primarily residing in the valley areas of Manipur, has traditionally been classified as an Other Backward Class (OBC) under the Indian government's reservation policy.
• On the other hand, various indigenous tribal communities, inhabiting the hill areas of Manipur, have been recognized as Scheduled Tribes (ST).
• This classification is based on distinct socio-cultural, historical, and geographical factors. The Meitei community, however, claims that they have been historically marginalized and demand ST status to avail the benefits and protections provided to STs.

Geography and Demography:

• Manipur is divided into two regions - the Imphal Valley and surrounding hills.
• The valley, which comprises about 10% of Manipur’s landmass, is dominated by the non-tribal Meitei who account for more than 64% of the population of the State and yields 40 of the State’s 60 MLAs.
• The hills comprising 90% of the geographical area are inhabited by more than 35% recognised tribes but send only 20 MLAs to the Assembly.
• While a majority of the Meiteis are Hindus followed by Muslims, the 33 recognised tribes, broadly classified into ‘Any Naga tribes’ and ‘Any Kuki tribes’ are largely Christians.

Demand for Scheduled Tribe Status by Meitei community:

• The Manipur High Court directed the State government to pursue a 10-year-old recommendation to grant ST status to the Meitei community.
• The ST Demand Committee of Manipur has been demanding ST status for the Meiteis since 2012, citing the need to "preserve" the community's culture, language, and ancestral land.
• The Meiteis were recognized as a tribe before the merger of Manipur with the Union of India in 1949.
• The ST status would provide constitutional safeguards against outsiders and restrict land ownership by non-tribals in the Imphal Valley.

Implications and Concerns:

• The tribal groups fear that granting ST status to Meiteis would lead to loss of job opportunities and allow them to acquire land in the hills, pushing the tribals out.
• The language of the Meitei people is already included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, and they have access to benefits associated with the SC, OBC, or EWS status.
• The demand for ST status is seen as a ploy to attenuate the political demands of the Kukis and Nagas and a tacit strategy of the dominant valley dwellers to make inroads into the hill areas.
• Dilution of Benefits: The tribal communities argue that granting ST status to the Meitei community could dilute the benefits and opportunities currently available to the tribal groups. They fear that limited resources and reservations could be further divided, affecting their representation and access to government schemes.
• Land and Identity Concerns: There are concerns that the inclusion of the Meitei community as STs might lead to disputes over land and resources, as the tribal communities have customary rights and control over certain territories. Additionally, the tribal groups fear that their distinct cultural identity might be overshadowed or eroded by the dominant Meitei culture.
• Political Representation: Granting ST status to the Meitei community could alter the existing political dynamics in Manipur. It may impact the representation of tribal communities in legislative bodies and local governance structures, potentially diminishing their voice and influence.

Way Forward:

• Political Representation: Ensuring fair and adequate political representation for the tribal communities in the state legislature and other decision-making bodies is crucial. This can be achieved through the reservation of seats for tribal representatives and implementing policies that empower marginalized communities.
• Development Initiatives: The government should prioritize the development of the hill areas by investing in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other basic amenities. Special attention should be given to the socio economic upliftment of the tribal communities to reduce the disparities between the valley and the hills.
• Cultural Preservation: Promoting and preserving the cultural heritage and identity of the tribal communities is essential for fostering inclusivity. This can be done through the promotion of tribal languages, art, music, and festivals, as well as the establishment of cultural centers and museums.
• Inter-Community Dialogue: Encouraging dialogue and engagement between different communities is vital for building understanding and trust. Platforms for constructive discussions, such as community forums, can be established to address grievances, resolve conflicts, and promote harmony.
• Education and Employment Opportunities: Enhancing educational and vocational opportunities for the tribal youth can empower them and provide avenues for socio-economic progress. Skill development programs, scholarships, and job reservations can be implemented to ensure equal access to education and employment.
• Strengthening Institutions: Strengthening local governance institutions in the hill areas can empower the tribal communities to participate in decision-making processes and ensure that their voices are heard. This can be achieved by devolving power and resources to the local level and promoting grassroots democracy.

Conclusion:

• The demand for ST status by the Meitei community has intensified the ongoing conflict in Manipur, with concerns and implications for the tribal groups.
• A comprehensive approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders is needed to resolve the issue and restore peace in the region.

Source: The Indian Express

Mains Question:

Q. Critically examine the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community in Manipur. Discuss the historical context, reasons cited by the ST Demand Committee, and the potential impact of granting ST status on the tribal groups and the Meitei community. (250 Words).