Home / War and Conflict / Manipur Kids' Art Shows Brutal Reality of Conflict
Manipur Kids' Art Shows Brutal Reality of Conflict
14 Feb
Summary
- Children's drawings vividly depict violence, burning homes, and bodies.
- Artwork serves as 'spatial memories' for traumatized displaced children.
- Urgent need for sustained mental health support highlighted.
Children displaced by ethnic violence in Manipur are articulating their trauma through drawings. These artworks, created in various relief camps across the state, vividly portray scenes of burning homes, armed gunmen, and the bodies of victims.
One sketch by a 10-year-old Meitei boy depicted a man hanging from a tree, a burning house, and bodies on the ground, with only the blood colored red. These drawings are described by child rights advocates as "spatial memories," replaying the harsh realities witnessed by the children.
Officials estimate around 18,000 displaced children reside in relief camps, with child rights advocates suggesting the number could be closer to 25,000. The poignant artwork emphasizes the critical need for continuous mental health assistance for these affected children.
Many children are drawing houses with reinforced doors and large padlocks, symbolizing their fear and desire for safety. These images serve as a powerful testament to the deep psychological scars left by the conflict.
