Manipur: Two Killed, Houses Burnt in Fresh Violence in Kamjong Dist
Two church leaders were killed and several houses, along with a village church, were set ablaze in a pre-dawn attack on a Kuki village in Kamjong district, further escalating tensions in the conflict-hit state.
IMPHAL / KAMJONG- Fresh violence erupted in Manipur’s Kamjong district on Thursday morning when unidentified armed assailants attacked a Kuki village near the India-Myanmar border, killing two church leaders and setting multiple houses and a church on fire.
According to police and local sources, the attack took place at around 4:55 a.m. in Kultuh (also referred to as Kultuk) village. The assailants allegedly opened fire on residents before torching residential structures and religious property.
The deceased have been identified as Letminlun Haokip, Head Deacon of the village church, and Lunminthang Haokip, Youth Chairman of the church. Two other civilians reportedly sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
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Initial reports indicate that between seven and thirty houses were destroyed in the attack, with varying estimates emerging from local sources. The village church was also burned during the incident.
Security forces were rushed to the area shortly after the attack was reported. Officials confirmed that personnel have secured the village and surrounding areas while investigations are underway to establish the identity of the perpetrators and the circumstances leading to the violence.
No group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack. However, several Kuki civil society organisations have alleged the involvement of cadres linked to the NSCN (Eastern Flank) and other armed elements operating along the Indo-Myanmar border. These allegations have not been independently verified by authorities.
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The attack comes amid heightened tensions in the region following the recovery of six abducted Naga men whose bodies were found earlier this week. Observers fear that the latest incident could trigger further retaliatory violence in already sensitive areas of the state.
The Eastern Kuki Chiefs’ Association (EKCA) strongly condemned the killings and destruction of property, describing the incident as a serious violation of human rights, religious freedom and civilian security. The organisation demanded a thorough investigation, immediate action against those responsible and enhanced protection for vulnerable border villages.
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Other Kuki organisations, including church bodies and community groups, also called for stronger security measures and swift justice for the victims.
Reacting to the incident, Congress leader Lamtinthang Haokip condemned the killings and criticised the government’s handling of the security situation, arguing that stronger preventive measures were required to protect civilians.
Manipur Police and security agencies have intensified combing and search operations in vulnerable hill districts in recent weeks amid concerns over renewed violence. Authorities have appealed to all communities to maintain peace and avoid actions that could further inflame tensions.
Manipur has witnessed recurring ethnic violence since 2023, resulting in more than 250 deaths, widespread displacement and deep divisions between communities. While peace-building and rehabilitation efforts continue under the current administration, sporadic incidents of violence remain a significant challenge.
Officials said the situation in Kamjong district and neighbouring areas is being closely monitored, with additional security measures under consideration.
