The Meitei community, which had gathered in large numbers for the annual Thangjing Hills pilgrimage, called off their plans on April 14 due to mounting tensions and opposition from the Kuki-Zo community. Community elders advised against crossing the buffer zone separating the Meitei-controlled Imphal Valley and the Kuki-dominated hill districts, citing security threats and the volatile situation. The sacred pilgrimage to Thangjing Hills, located over 10 kilometers from Moirang in Bishnupur district, is a significant event in the Meitei community, with pilgrims traditionally making the journey in April, according to the Manipuri calendar. The pilgrimage was supposed to take place during the full moon and the subsequent days, which are considered the most auspicious. However, heightened tensions have prevented the Meitei pilgrims from proceeding with their journey. A security buffer zone, heavily guarded by security forces, separates the two communities. The Kuki-Zo members have strongly opposed any attempts to cross this buffer zone, adding further complexities to the already tense atmosphere in the state, which has been rocked by ethnic violence since May 2023.
Security measures have been reinforced in sensitive areas such as Kwakta and Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district, which are critical points along the pilgrimage route. Despite this, many Meitei devotees, who had come to offer prayers on Sunday in preparation for the pilgrimage, turned back after being urged by community leaders to refrain from continuing due to the potential risks involved. One pilgrim, Naoba, expressed his disappointment after failing to continue the journey: “I, along with two friends, came here with the intention to go on the pilgrimage, but security restrictions have made it impossible to proceed. We are returning as it’s not safe to go beyond Kwakta.” Meitei elders have also advised postponing the pilgrimage until the situation improves. They have warned that crossing through Kuki villages could escalate tensions, especially as armed Kuki groups are reportedly stationed at the foothills to prevent the pilgrims’ entry. “Even with security protection, it is difficult to guarantee safety,” an elder explained, citing the current volatile conditions.
The pilgrimage route also passes through dense forests and isolated areas, making the journey more perilous under the prevailing circumstances. “We are willing to undertake the pilgrimage as soon as the situation improves. This tradition is over 1,000 years old, and it cannot be halted by any group,” Naoba added.The Meitei community, which has long regarded Thangjing Hill as a sacred site, has been making the annual pilgrimage to the hill throughout the month of Sajibu, aligning with their religious customs. On April 13, the full moon day, numerous Meitei devotees offered prayers in Bishnupur and camped overnight in Moirang, preparing for the pilgrimage. However, the Kuki-Zo community has strongly opposed the Meitei pilgrims’ plans. Hundreds of Kuki-Zo members gathered at Thangjing Hill on Sunday, staging protests and issuing warnings against any attempts to cross the buffer zone. “Any attempt to enter will be met with strong opposition,” Kuki organisations stated. They warned that any untoward incidents would hold the pilgrims responsible.