New Delhi: At least 731 internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in relief camps and prefabricated housing across Manipur have died since ethnic violence erupted in the state in May 2023, according to information disclosed by the Manipur home department under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.The information was provided to RTI applicant Hareshwar Goshwami, a writer and political activist, following directions from the Manipur Information Commission in an appeal case earlier this year, according to a report by The Times of India.The district-wise data, compiled by the state Home Department from various district administrations, showed that the deaths occurred among displaced people sheltering in relief camps and prefabricated housing units set up after the outbreak of violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.According to the RTI reply, Churachandpur recorded the highest number of deaths at 248, followed by Bishnupur (151), Kangpokpi (128), Imphal West (94), Kakching (60), Imphal East (25), Jiribam (13), Thoubal (11) and Tengnoupal (one).The disclosure also showed that more than 43,000 people remained displaced nearly three years after the conflict began. As of April 30, Kangpokpi had the largest displaced population at 15,694, followed by Bishnupur with 10,092 and Churachandpur with 6,365.The RTI response further recorded 25 unnatural deaths in relief camps and settlements. In Churachandpur, authorities reported six such deaths, comprising four drowning incidents, one electrocution and one sexual assault case in which the accused was arrested. District officials told the RTI applicant that counselling and awareness programmes had been conducted following the incidents.Imphal West reported four unnatural deaths, including two cases of hanging, one overdose and one death caused by a bullet injury.The documents also highlighted continuing health challenges among displaced families. Imphal East reported 217 camp residents suffering from terminal or incurable illnesses, while Imphal West reported 41 such patients and Bishnupur 26.The violence, which broke out on May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march in the hill districts, triggered widespread clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. More than 250 people have been killed in the conflict and tens of thousands displaced from their homes.The state has remained sharply divided along ethnic lines, with many displaced families unable to return to their original homes because of continuing security concerns and the absence of a political settlement. Relief camps established during the initial phase of the violence continue to house thousands of people.