Violence Erupts in Manipur's Ukhrul District, Dozens of Homes Burned
Violence has erupted in Litan village within Manipur's Ukhrul district, resulting in the destruction of dozens of houses and government quarters. The clashes between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki tribal communities escalated late on Sunday, leading to widespread unrest and significant property damage.
Escalation of Tribal Clashes
The unrest reportedly began on Saturday following an alleged assault on a Tangkhul man, Sterling Shimray, by a group of Kuki men. Shimray is currently undergoing treatment at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal. What started as a minor altercation quickly spiraled into full-blown violence, with intermittent firing reported and miscreants torching homes at Litan Bazar.
More than 20 houses belonging to both communities were set ablaze by angry rioters. Additionally, several private vehicles and government quarters were also set on fire, exacerbating the damage and tension in the area.
Mass Evacuation and Security Measures
Hundreds of residents fled their homes on Monday as the situation deteriorated. The Ukhrul district administration responded by banning the display of firearms, warning that licenses would be suspended for any violations. Heavy security deployment continues, with authorities stating that the situation remains tense and they are closely monitoring developments.
Residents were seen evacuating with their belongings as authorities scrambled to restore order. The Litan Sareikhong Village Authority issued a media communiqué appealing for communal harmony between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities. They condemned the violence, stressing that what began as a minor altercation involving intoxicated individuals should not be communalized. The authority urged both communities to exercise restraint and maintain peace.
Government Response and Emergency Meetings
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho chaired an emergency meeting at Litan Police Station on Monday, joined by MLAs Ram Muivah (representing the Tangkhul community) and Kimneo Haokip Hangshing (representing the Kuki community). Dikho emphasized that the violence stems from a few individuals and that both sides desire peace and harmony. He assured that the government would arrest the culprits and restore calm.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand visited the injured victim at RIMS earlier in the day and appealed to both communities to maintain peace. Minister Konthoujam Govindas confirmed that additional security forces have been deployed to the area to prevent further escalation.
Details of the Attack
According to reports, instead of pursuing a peaceful resolution, a group of heavily armed villagers from Sikibung allegedly launched a violent attack on the residence of the village chief. Despite police intervention, the attackers continued their actions, targeting the house of the individual involved in the initial scuffle. This incident highlights the rapid escalation from a personal dispute to widespread communal violence.
The authorities are working diligently to contain the situation and ensure the safety of all residents. The ongoing heavy security presence aims to deter further violence and facilitate a return to normalcy in the affected areas of Ukhrul district.
