Fresh Violence Erupts in Manipur's Ukhrul District, Internet Suspended for Five Days
The Ukhrul district in Manipur has been plunged into renewed violence, with fresh arson attacks and firing incidents reported in the Litan area and adjoining villages. In response to the escalating tensions, the Manipur Government has imposed a five-day internet suspension across Ukhrul district, effective immediately from 11:30 am on Tuesday. This drastic measure comes as a preventive action to curb the spread of inflammatory content on social media that could exacerbate the volatile situation.
Curfew and Security Measures Enforced Amid Ongoing Clashes
Following the outbreak of violence on Sunday, which saw 25 houses torched, the district magistrate imposed an indefinite curfew and deployed heavy security forces, including state and central units. The curfew was mandated due to apprehensions of a breach of peace and public tranquillity between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities in Litan village, posing significant risks to human lives and property. Litan, a small commercial town located about 35 km from Imphal along the Imphal-Ukhrul road, is inhabited by both communities, making it a flashpoint for ethnic tensions.
Root Cause and Escalation of the Conflict
The recent flare-up is a direct fallout from Sunday's violence, which was triggered by a drunken brawl on the evening of February 7 at Litan Sareikhong. During this altercation, a Tangkhul Naga man identified as Sterling was allegedly assaulted and sustained serious injuries. This incident has heightened longstanding tensions between the two neighbouring villages, leading to widespread fear and displacement. Since Monday morning, villagers in and around Litan have started abandoning their homes, anticipating further escalation of the conflict.
Government Response and Internet Ban Rationale
An order issued by the state home department detailed the rationale behind the internet ban, citing the volatile law and order situation in Ukhrul District. The order expressed concerns that anti-social elements might exploit social media to transmit images, posts, and video messages that incite public passions, potentially leading to serious repercussions on law and order. It highlighted an imminent danger of loss of life, damage to public and private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquillity and communal harmony due to false rumours and inflammatory material circulated through mobile and messaging services.
Efforts Towards Resolution and Community Impact
In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, talks were held between leaders of the Tangkhul and Kuki communities on Monday, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho. However, the exact figure of houses damaged during the fresh violence remains unascertained, though purported videos of the incidents have flooded social media platforms, underscoring the need for the internet suspension. The police continue to monitor the area closely, with heavy security measures in place to prevent further outbreaks of violence and ensure the safety of residents.
The ongoing conflict in Ukhrul district highlights the fragile ethnic dynamics in Manipur and the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining peace. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on restoring order and fostering dialogue between the communities to prevent future clashes.
