Archives of Conflict: Identity, Memory and State Power in Manipur
Author : Longjam Loyangamba Meitei and Zamin Ali
Abstract :
This paper examines the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of conflict in Manipur through the lenses of Cultural Studies, identity politics, and capitalism. It explores how ethnic rivalry, religious polarization, and xenophobia are historically rooted in colonial legacies, cultural hegemony, and state policies. The study analyses the impact of militarization, AFSPA, and insurgency on everyday life, particularly among the working classes. It further interprets bandhs, blockades, and protest cultures as forms of subaltern resistance. Ultimately, the paper argues that globalization and political engineering threaten indigenous identity, cultural harmony, and socio-economic stability in Manipur.
Keywords :
Cultural Identity, Ethnic Conflict, Militarization, Xenophobia, Indigenous Rights.