Bengaluru, 29 Aug

The north-eastern state of Manipur has been battling ethnic violence between Meitei people and Kuki tribal community for around three months. At least 150 people have been killed and around 60,000 people have been displaced due to the ethnic violence.

Those displaced by the violence have sought refuge across the country, including Karnataka where the first arrivals were recorded in July. More than 700 Manipuri families have already found sanctuary in Karnataka since the violence began. Initially concerned for the wellbeing of their loved ones back home, these refugees were heartened by the warm and hospitable reception extended by the people of Karnataka.

Numerous individuals and organizations rallied to provide both shelter and sustenance to the Manipuri refugees, with the state government also offering free education to their students. Notably, church associations in Bengaluru came forward to offer temporary accommodation and assistance to those in need.

These gestures of compassion have been like a soothing balm to the distraught individuals. Santhosh Royan, the Director of Bangalore Manipur Students Association, shared a beautiful incident. “I was taking a ride in an auto-rickshaw and was speaking on the phone about raising funds for Manipur families. The driver happened to overhear the conversation. At the end of the ride, when I gave the driver the fare amount, he didn’t accept and in turn offered me Rs 500, saying using this for needy families from Manipur. When I asked how much he earns per day, he said I too have a family to take care of, but lets us help the most needed ones,” he said.

Bengaluru's warmth and unity shine

Local residents' warm reception of the Manipuri refugees reflects the empathy and unity that have flourished within Bengaluru's community. An inspiring example was a young girl in 7th grade who emptied her piggy bank to contribute to the cause.

Lianngaih Vung, a 33-year-old from Lamka, Manipur, moved to Bengaluru in search of work opportunities along with her hardworking carpenter husband who supports their family. Their hopes extend beyond personal stability—they also wish to assist other Manipuri families arriving in the city. "We feel secure here, and our children are receiving a quality education. The accommodation and support are deeply appreciated," Lianngaih Vung expressed.

Challenges and resilience

For individuals like Kim, who ran a small business in Churachandpur, the journey has been fraught with challenges. Despite being in Bengaluru for over two months, Kim is still searching for employment. Juggling care for four children and financially supporting family members, Kim's perseverance mirrors the resilience displayed by many during adversity.

A path to healing and renewal

Families in Bengaluru receive the benefit of free education for their children, while church associations actively explore ways to financially assist Manipuri families and foster a sense of hope. These efforts extend beyond mere financial help, aiming to provide emotional solace to those grappling with the trauma of Manipur's violence.

Though in a new and unfamiliar environment, the journey to address the emotional aftermath of the turmoil back home is ongoing. The wounds inflicted by the unrest continue to impact communication and cause anxiety for numerous families. As the citizens of Bengaluru come together to offer mutual support, their resilience and unity stand as a testament to the strength of community in times of crisis in the Silicon City. —Salar News