Manipur: Arson, Gunfire Reported in Ukhrul, Internet Suspended

IMPHAL— Tensions escalated for the third consecutive day in Ukhrul district on Tuesday, with fresh incidents of arson, gunfire and destruction of property reported from the Litan area, also known as Litan Sareikhong or Litan Bazar. The clashes involved members of the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki-Zo communities, according to police and local sources.

Officials said miscreants torched an additional nine to ten houses early on Tuesday, taking the total number of homes destroyed since Sunday night to between 30 and 50, based on varying accounts from residents, officials and media reports. Several private vehicles were also set ablaze. Heavy exchanges of gunfire were reported from nearby villages, though authorities said no official confirmation of casualties had been received so far.

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In view of the deteriorating law and order situation, the Manipur government imposed a five-day suspension of internet and data services across Ukhrul district, effective from 11:30 am on Tuesday. The suspension covers mobile data, broadband, VPN and VSAT services. The order stated that there was a risk of anti-social elements using social media to circulate inflammatory content, images and videos that could further aggravate the situation.

Prohibitory orders remain in force, and additional security forces, including personnel from the Army and Assam Rifles, have been deployed in strength to the affected areas. Several villagers from both communities have reportedly fled to safer locations amid fears of further escalation.

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The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) condemned the incidents, describing them as not isolated but part of what it termed a “long and carefully engineered crisis” linked to proxy politics and institutional failures. Other civil society organisations, including the All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation, appealed for restraint, dialogue and efforts to maintain communal harmony.

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The latest clashes add to the continuing ethnic unrest in Manipur, which began in May 2023 primarily between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups, resulting in more than 250 deaths and large-scale displacement. Observers say the renewed violence underscores unresolved issues such as land disputes, identity politics, proliferation of arms and the absence of a comprehensive political resolution.

Authorities have urged both communities to exercise restraint and cooperate with security forces to restore peace. The situation in Ukhrul remains volatile, with security personnel continuing patrols and monitoring developments closely.