The small Indian state of Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic conflict as the two largest groups, the majority Meitei and the minority Kuki, fight for control of territory and influence.
57% of Manipuri's population is Maitei (primarily Hindu), whereas 43% of Kukis and Nagas practise Christianity.
Violence caused loss of life and property
Since the start of the violence in May, at least 130 people have died and 400 have been injured. As the army, paramilitary forces, and police work to put an end to the bloodshed, more than 60,000 people have been driven from their homes.
Numerous churches, more than a dozen temples, police armouries, and villages have all been devastated.
How did it start?
Tensions erupted when Kukis started protesting Meitei's claims for official tribal recognition, which they claimed would increase their already substantial influence on the government and society and allow them to purchase land or settle in Kuki-dominated areas.
However, there are numerous underlying causes. The Kukis claim that the Meitei-led government's campaign against narcotics is a ruse to evict their towns.
Tensions have increased as a result of illegal immigration from Myanmar. An increasing population is putting strain on how land is used, and unemployment has drawn young people into different militias.
The Kukis claim that the Meitei-led government's campaign against narcotics is a ruse to evict their towns.
Tensions have increased as a result of illegal immigration from Myanmar. An increasing population is putting strain on how land is used, and unemployment has drawn young people into different militias.
Tensions have increased as a result of illegal immigration from Myanmar. An increasing population is putting strain on how land is used, and unemployment has drawn young people into different militias.
The latest flare-up, however, is almost entirely between the Meitei and the Kuki. Meiteis mostly live in the Imphal Valley, while the Kukis live in the surrounding hills and beyond.
The Indian government has deployed 40,000 soldiers, paramilitary troops and police to the region in an attempt to stem the latest round of violence. In addition to running the federal government of India, Bharatiya Janata Party controls the Meitei N Biren Singh-led state government of Manipur.
Despite making up 53% of the population, the Meitei also owns 40 of the 60 seats in the regional parliament. The Kukis claim that regions in Mr Singh's recent campaign against the growing of poppies for the heroin trade were targeted.
The administration of Mr Singh charged Kuki rebel organisations with stirring up the populace.
