Imphal: Tensions in Manipur’s Ukhrul district reached a breaking point on Sunday night as armed militants allegedly set several houses on fire, marking a sharp escalation in violence between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities.
The district administration has since clamped down with prohibitory orders to prevent further arson and unrest.
The Spark: From a Local Dispute to Midnight Arson
The unrest reportedly began on Saturday night following the alleged assault of a Tangkhul Naga community member by a group of seven to eight individuals in Litan village. While tribal leaders initially agreed to settle the matter through customary laws, a scheduled meeting on Sunday failed to materialize.
The situation spiraled shortly after:
- Stone Pelting: On Sunday evening, members of the two tribal groups engaged in intense stone pelting at Litan village.
- Police Intervention: Security personnel were forced to fire tear gas shells to disperse the clashing mobs.
- Midnight Violence: Around midnight, the conflict turned lethal. Alleged Kuki militants reportedly torched multiple Tangkhul Naga homes at Litan Sareikhong. In retaliation, several houses belonging to the Kuki community were also set ablaze in nearby areas.
Security Response and Current Status
In response to the deteriorating law and order situation, Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das issued an immediate notification prohibiting the movement of people outside their residences starting Sunday at 7 PM.
“The extent of the damage is being assessed and the situation continues to remain tense,” a district official confirmed.
Additional security forces have been deployed across key routes, including:
- Mahadev
- Lambui
- Shangkai
- Litan
Unverified Footage and Armed Presence
Social media has been flooded with unverified video clips purportedly showing men in camouflage uniforms firing sophisticated weapons and setting fire to vehicles and property. While authorities have not yet verified the authenticity of these clips, the presence of armed elements has significantly hampered peace efforts.
The violence took a turn for the worse when a group from Sikibung village allegedly attacked the residence of the Litan Sareikhong chief and fired several rounds near the Litan police station, further aggravating an already volatile environment.
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