The ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur over the past three weeks has caused a significant surge in the prices of essential commodities. The import of products from outside the state has been severely affected, resulting in items being sold at double the normal price. Rice, potatoes, onions, eggs, LPG cylinders, and petrol are among the commodities facing exorbitant rates in most parts of the landlocked northeastern state, far exceeding the government-fixed prices.
Manglembi Chanam, a government school teacher in Imphal West district, expressed her concerns about the soaring prices: “Earlier, one 50 kg bag of superfine rice cost Rs 900, but now it has gone up to Rs 1,800. Prices of potatoes and onions have also increased by Rs 20 to Rs 30. In general, prices for all the essential commodities brought from outside have gone up.” She further highlighted that LPG cylinders are being sold on the black market for Rs 1,800, while a litre of petrol costs Rs 170 in many parts of Imphal West district. The price of eggs has also risen, with a crate of 30 eggs now costing Rs 300 instead of the usual Rs 180.
The disruption in truck movement to the Imphal Valley, caused by roadblocks and transporters’ fear due to clashes, has worsened the situation. The clashes erupted after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in the hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. As a result, the stock of essential supplies in the state rapidly diminished, reaching critical levels. To alleviate the situation, movement through NH 37 was planned, and truck operations on the highway resumed on May 15 under the protection of security forces.
The price hikes also affected districts that were not directly impacted by the violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which claimed the lives of over 70 people. Rebecca Gangmei, a shop owner in Tamenglong district, observed, “Prices of essential items, particularly rice, witnessed a steep rise, even though there has been no violence in our district. Only the prices of meat have not seen much change as it is sourced locally.” Pamchuila Kashung, an assistant professor in a government college in Ukhrul district, acknowledged that she was fortunate to live near Nagaland, where essential items are sourced. However, even in her area, some prices, particularly rice, have increased.
In response to the situation, the state government released a list of revised wholesale and retail prices for 18 food items, shortly after the violence broke out.