Manipur: Fresh Clashes in Ukhrul Leave Homes Destroyed, Security Tightened

Imphal: Fresh violence broke out in Manipur’s Ukhrul district after several houses were set ablaze amid escalating tensions between tribal communities, officials confirmed on Monday.

The situation worsened on Sunday evening when members of two tribal groups clashed at Litan village, hurling stones at each other. In response, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders to curb further unrest.

By around midnight, several homes belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community in Litan Sareikhong were reportedly torched, allegedly by armed Kuki militants. Officials also confirmed that a few houses owned by Kuki community members were burned in a nearby locality.

Authorities said assessments were underway to determine the full extent of the damage, adding that the situation remained volatile.

Videos circulating on social media allegedly show armed individuals setting fire to houses and vehicles, while people dressed in camouflage appear to be firing advanced weapons into the air. However, officials have not verified the authenticity of the footage.

To prevent further violence, additional security forces have been deployed along routes leading to Litan, including Mahadev, Lambui and Shangkai. On Sunday evening, security personnel used tear gas to disperse clashing groups at Litan Sareikhong village.

Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das issued an order citing the risk of a breakdown in law and order due to heightened tensions between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities. The order restricts residents from leaving their homes from 7 pm on Sunday until further notice, while exempting government officials and security forces.

The unrest is believed to have been sparked by the alleged assault of a Tangkhul Naga individual by a group of seven or eight people at Litan village on Saturday night. Although the issue was initially resolved through customary discussions, with a meeting planned for Sunday, the talks did not take place.

Instead, villagers from nearby Sikibung reportedly attacked the residence of the chief of Litan Sareikhong. The group is also alleged to have fired multiple rounds while passing near the Litan police station, further intensifying tensions.

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