New Delhi: Officials reported on Monday that thousands of people who had fled violent riots and ethnic clashes in northeast India last week were being escorted back home by security personnel. The clashes began in Manipur, a state bordering Myanmar, when members of about 30 tribal groups clashed with the ethnic majority Meitei group over economic benefits and reservation status granted to some tribes. Peace talks between opposing leaders have commenced, but the situation remains extremely tense, and victims are hesitant to return home out of fear of renewed violence. Civilians were taken home after combing operations were completed near the border areas, and a curfew will remain in effect throughout the week. The fighting resulted in at least 62 deaths, 230 injuries, and the displacement of 35,000 people, with approximately 1,700 houses burned by protesters. The clashes were reportedly sparked by the Manipur High Court’s consideration of a request by the Meitei community for scheduled tribe status, which existing recognised tribes opposed. Scheduled tribe status provides government jobs, college places, and elected seats to tackle historical structural inequality and discrimination. The situation is slowly returning to normal, but rights groups are urging both sides to put an end to the violence to avoid extended periods of strict curfew. Source: ARAB News