Violence in Manipur, India prompts rerun in India’s massive Election

India, host to the world’s largest election, faces a rerun of voting at 11 polling stations in the northeastern state of Manipur due to reports of violence and damage to voting machines. This decision comes amidst months of ethnic clashes that have plagued the state.

The chief electoral officer of Manipur announced late on Saturday that the election authorities deemed the voting void at the 11 locations and mandated a fresh poll to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

Friday marked the commencement of voting in India, involving nearly one billion citizens in what is deemed the world’s most populous country. Scheduled to run until June 1, the election is anticipated to secure Prime Minister Narendra Modi a rare third term, with key issues such as economic growth, social welfare, and Hindu nationalism dominating the discourse.

However, the main opposition Congress party has lodged complaints, demanding a rerun at 47 polling stations in Manipur, alleging instances of booth capture and electoral fraud.

Incidents of violence marred Friday’s voting in Manipur, with clashes erupting among armed groups and attempts to seize control of polling stations despite heavy security presence. Despite the threats, voters turned out in significant numbers, underscoring their commitment to exercising their democratic rights.

The unrest in Manipur stems from long-standing tensions between the majority Meitei and tribal Kuki-Zo communities, which have escalated since May.

The state remains deeply divided, with Meiteis controlling the valley while Kuki-dominated hills remain embroiled in conflict. Federal paramilitary forces monitor the no-man’s land that separates these regions.