( CNN ) -- Myanmar 's courts convicted 22 Buddhists this week for sparking anti-Muslim violence and bloodshed in March , according to a state-run newspaper . At least 43 people died and thousands more were displaced as a result of violence in the city of Meiktila , in central Myanmar , with the Muslim population sustaining the bulk of the casualties . Those convicted this week received prison terms ranging from one to ten years in prison , including hard labor , the state-run New Light of Myanmar reported . Anti-Muslim sectarian attacks in Meiktila began March 20 , reportedly after an argument between a Muslim gold shop owner and two Buddhist sellers . The wave of violence that swept the city included beatings , arson and immolations . Many Muslims claimed local police took no action to stop the riots . After three days , President Thein Sein declared a state of emergency , allowing the military to enter the city and restore order . Sein said the government did not intervene immediately in order to avoid endangering the country 's `` ongoing democratic transition and reform efforts . '' `` I would like to warn all political opportunists and religious extremists who try to exploit the noble teachings of these religions , and have tried to plant hatred among people of different faiths for their own self-interest : Their efforts will not be tolerated , '' he said . This week 's convictions continue to highlight the fragility of ethnic relations in Myanmar , also known as Burma , as it emerges from decades of military repression . Authorities have released thousands of political prisoners and pursued peace talks with rebel groups in the past two years .
Myanmar convicts 22 Buddhists for anti-Muslim violence , bloodshed in March . At least 43 people died , thousands displaces in central city of Meiktila . Riots began March 20 , lasted for three days , until state of emergency declared . Myanmar , also known as Burma , is on path of democratic , economic reform .