Manipur Sees Renewed Violence Amid Protests

IMPHAL— Nearly three years after ethnic violence first erupted in May 2023, Manipur continues to witness recurring unrest, with fresh incidents of violence, protests, and killings once again intensifying tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.

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The latest escalation began on April 7, 2026, when a bomb or rocket-like projectile struck a civilian house in Tronglaobi village near Moirang in Bishnupur district. The attack killed two young children and critically injured their mother. Meitei civil society groups alleged that the projectile originated from hill areas controlled by Kuki-Zo armed groups, a claim that was firmly denied by Kuki-Zo organisations.

The incident triggered widespread protests across the valley districts. In Bishnupur, demonstrators attacked a nearby Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp along the Bishnupur–Churachandpur border, setting vehicles on fire. Security forces responded with firing and smoke bombs, resulting in additional civilian casualties. At least four people were reported dead in the immediate aftermath of the violence.

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Since then, unrest has persisted across several districts, including Imphal West and Kakching, with reports of torch rallies, road blockades, and confrontations between protesters and security forces. Authorities have used tear gas and crowd-control measures to disperse gatherings. Additional fatalities have been reported in subsequent incidents, including that of a Border Security Force (BSF) personnel.

Tensions have further widened with the killing of two Naga (Tangkhul) civilians in Ukhrul district around April 18 in an ambush suspected to involve Kuki militants. A retired soldier was also killed, raising concerns that the conflict could expand beyond the primary Meitei–Kuki-Zo axis and draw in other ethnic groups.

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The state government, led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, has convened high-level security meetings in response. Authorities have imposed curfews in sensitive areas and repeatedly suspended mobile internet services across key valley districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur, citing the need to prevent the spread of misinformation.

The current situation unfolds against the backdrop of the prolonged 2023–2026 conflict, which has resulted in over 250 deaths and displaced tens of thousands. Many remain in relief camps, while core issues—such as land rights, demands for Scheduled Tribe status, political representation, and accountability for past violence—remain unresolved.

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Although large-scale clashes had reduced in recent months, the latest incidents underscore the fragile nature of the relative calm. Analysts note that the absence of sustained political dialogue and delays in justice and rehabilitation continue to fuel mistrust between communities.

As of April 20, 2026, the situation remains tense but largely contained, with increased deployment of central forces and intensified security operations. Protests demanding justice for recent victims continue, while concerns grow over the slow pace of investigations and arrests.

Authorities have appealed for calm and assured action against those responsible. However, many residents and civil society groups are calling for more decisive intervention from both the state and central governments to prevent further escalation.