The Politics of Identifying with and Distancing from Kuki Identity in Manipur

Abstract

Manipur is a multi-ethnic state located in Northeast India witnessing a divisive politics of identity and acute ethnic conflict. Following a socio-historical perspective, we identify the causes and manifestations of transformations in ethnic identity and 'tribal' affiliations,the marriages and the divorces that are reconstituting Kuki identity in contemporary Manipur. Our argument is substantiated with specific examples of the Nagaisation of some Kuki tribes and the re-definition of Hmar identity. The politics of identifying the self different from the other, and distancing from historical affiliations has become an interminable quest in Manipur and submerged the state comp in mindless violence.