Meiteis Flee Mizoram Amidst Tensions: Paraded Tribal Women Incident Sparks Exodus

AIZAWL: In recent developments, more than 600 Meitei people have left Mizoram, a northeastern Indian state, in fear of potential attacks and tension. The exodus was triggered by an alarming incident where two tribal women were sexually molested and paraded naked by a mob, which surfaced online. This incident sparked fear among the Meitei community, prompting their departure to their home states for safety.

According to Superintendent of Police, Vanlalfaka Ralte, the exodus was accelerated by an advisory issued by an ex-militant organization, warning Meitei people to leave Mizoram to avoid potential harm in the aftermath of the sexual assault incident. The situation worsened when civil society groups organized a solidarity march in support of the Kuki-Zo ethnic community in Manipur, further escalating tensions in the region.

The All Mizoram Manipuri Association (AMMA) vice president, Rambir, confirmed that more than 3,000 Meiteis, including teachers, students, and workers, were residing in Mizoram before the exodus began. He stated that the Meitei people continued to leave the state even after the protest rallies, as they felt increasingly insecure in the current climate.

The protests were organized by the NGO Coordination Committee, a conglomerate of five major civil society organizations, including the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA). The rallies expressed solidarity with the Kuki-Zo ethnic community, who had faced atrocities in Manipur. Chief Minister Zoramthanga, his deputy Tawnluia, ministers, and legislators from various political parties also joined the protest rally in Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram.

While the solidarity march and the exodus of Meiteis heightened tensions in the region, the police reported no untoward incidents during the protests. Nevertheless, the situation remained delicate and sensitive, with both communities concerned about potential unrest.

The Peace Accord MNF Returnees Association had previously issued an advisory to the Meitei people to leave Mizoram for their safety, given the Mizos' growing anger over the atrocities faced by the Zo ethnic community in the neighboring state.

In summary, the state of Mizoram witnessed a significant exodus of more than 600 Meiteis due to escalating tensions and fear of violence after two tribal women were sexually molested and paraded naked by a mob. The solidarity protests organized by civil society groups further exacerbated the situation, leading to the Meitei community's insecurity. As the region remains on edge, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation of the conflict.

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