Understanding the Causes of Ethnic Clashes in Manipur Through Ethno-Centric Politics

Ethnic clashes in Manipur are frequently seen over a period of time. They are shaped by history, interactions and competition between groups over a variety of goals. This paper discusses the ethnic clashes with the idea of ethnocentric politics in what way people become conscious about identity, collective memories what extent everyday experiences affect different groups related to each other. The paper uses a qualitative method on the basis of existing literature and historical records. To understand this better, the study begins with the Zeliangrong movement and examines the extent did its people in reforming traditional and social practices change slowly into a political demand. The study revealed that identity is not something that remains the same. It is a living process and changes slowly through history, memories and lived experiences. As people become emotionally connected to their identity, the imaginary line that separates between groups also become more visible which frequently leads to put into a category. Ethnocentric politics plays an important role in creating spaces and opportunities for people to come together within their own and also at the same time, it can make antagonism against others. This article suggests that if we understand identity in a more flexible and inclusive way, naturally it may reduce tensions between communities and cultivate a sense of belonging that touches every individual's heart to open the door wide for diversity to flourish.