Ethnic unrest and violence grip India's Manipur state.
Ethnic violence has erupted in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, with at least 58 dead and tens of thousands homeless. The violence was sparked by protests against the Meitei ethnic group being granted special status under India's "Scheduled Tribe" grouping. The Meitei community, who account for about 50% of the state's population, have campaigned for years to be recognized as a scheduled tribe, which would give them access to wider benefits. However, other ethnic groups fear they will not have a fair chance for jobs and other benefits if the Meitei community is granted scheduled tribe status.