Curfew Imposed in Manipur's Ukhrul District Following Escalating Tribal Violence
A curfew has been enforced in Manipur's Ukhrul district after a series of violent incidents that began on Saturday night. The unrest was triggered when a member of the Tangkhul Naga community was allegedly assaulted by seven or eight individuals in Litan village. This initial altercation set off a chain of events that has plunged the region into turmoil.
Sequence of Events Leading to Curfew and Internet Shutdown
According to police reports, the situation initially seemed resolvable through dialogue. Officials stated that discussions were held between the victim's side and the chief of Litan Sareikhong. Both parties agreed to settle the matter according to customary practices and scheduled a meeting for Sunday. However, that crucial meeting never took place, marking a turning point in the crisis.
Instead of peaceful resolution, violence escalated dramatically. Authorities reported that villagers from the nearby Sikibung area allegedly attacked the residence of the Litan Sareikhong chief. The group was also said to have fired multiple rounds while passing by the Litan police station, demonstrating blatant disregard for law enforcement presence.
Sunday Night Clashes and Monday Morning Arson Attacks
By Sunday night, tensions reached a boiling point as members of two tribal groups engaged in heavy stone pelting in the village. This violent confrontation forced the administration to impose prohibitory orders in an attempt to restore calm.
The situation deteriorated further around midnight on Monday when several homes belonging to members of the Tangkhul Naga community at Litan Sareikhong were allegedly set ablaze by Kuki militants. State minister Govindas Konthoujam provided alarming details about the extent of destruction.
"Although a meeting had been held, reports soon emerged of further arson," Konthoujam stated. "By 5 am, 17 houses had been burned, bringing the total number of gutted homes to 21."
Government Response and Security Measures
In response to the escalating violence, the state government took decisive action on Tuesday morning. Following reports of shots being fired, authorities suspended internet services across the entire district for five days, according to PTI reports. This measure aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and curb further mobilization of violent elements.
Additional security forces have been deployed to the affected areas, with Deputy Chief Minister L. Dikho personally present at the site engaging with local residents. Konthoujam emphasized that the ground situation remains tense despite these interventions.
Chief Minister's Appeal and Official Statements
Earlier on Tuesday, Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh made a public appeal for calm through social media. The CM revealed that he had visited RIMS Hospital in the morning to meet those injured in the Litan incident and assured them of full government support for their medical recovery.
"The incident, arising out of a misunderstanding, is now under control," Singh stated. "I appeal to all communities to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law, and maintain peace and harmony."
Senior officials have been deployed to the Litan area where they are closely monitoring the ground situation, according to Manipur police statements.
Broader Security Operations Across Manipur
Meanwhile, security forces have intensified their presence across multiple districts in Manipur. Search and area-dominance operations continue in sensitive and vulnerable pockets, resulting in significant weapons recoveries.
On the previous day, forces operating in the Ngarou Chengjel hill range near Nongdam village under Lamlai Police Station jurisdiction in Imphal East district seized:
- One .303 rifle with magazine
- Two single-barrel 12-bore guns
- Four 9 mm pistols with magazines
- Thirty-six hand grenades
Officials confirmed that intelligence-led combing, cordon, and search operations are being conducted extensively throughout the region. These operations aim to apprehend individuals involved in extortion and other criminal activities that have contributed to the volatile security environment.
The situation in Ukhrul district represents a significant challenge for Manipur's administration as they attempt to balance immediate security responses with longer-term community reconciliation efforts. The destruction of 21 homes has created humanitarian concerns that will require attention once immediate violence is contained.
