As the violence in Manipur between Kuki and Meitei communities continues for nearly a month, The Wire spoke to Naga elder statesman Niketu Iralu about the situation in the state and his perception of the clash as an independent, outside observer. In an interview with Karan Thapar, published on June 1, Iralu said that the failure of the Indian paramilitary forces to restore order in Nagaland seems “deliberate”. https://thewire.in/rights/full-text-niketu-iralu-karan-thapar-manipur-violence
Iralu, who is the nephew of the legendary leader A.Z. Phizo, also said that the home minister’s delay in coming to Manipur was a cause of great suspicion and concern. He added that the targeting of some 200 churches, including Meitei churches, raises suspicions that the RSS and other Hindutva forces are deliberately giving a religious colour to the troubles in Manipur.
by Karan Thapar
02/06/2023