Around 30 persons sustained injuries in a group clash inside and around Thingkangphi village of Churachandpur district on Monday’s night. A statement from the Zomi Council indicated the clashes occurred after Kuki hooligans started attacking the Zomi civilians on yesterday evening over differences in the naming of the burial lands dead bodies during the conflict. Following the clashes the District Magistrate of Churachandpur has imposed prohibitions under the act of C.P.C 144 (2) to control the tense situation an official source said today.
Reports revealed that the clash between the two communities namely Kukis and Zomis broke out when the latter tried to install the flag of Zomi community at a memorial stone at Thingkangphi village Churachandpur at around 9:15 pm on Monday. A press statement by the Zomi Council said ZC is shocked to notice the disrespect shown to and vulgar display of Zomi flag at Sialmat bridge. It is added that the Zomi flag is a symbol of Zomi’s pride, affection and loyalty which occupies a special place in the emotions and people of the Zomi.
On receiving the information on the clashes, the Churachandpur District police and Rapid Action Force rushed to the spot and ultimately used tear gas shells to control the situation. At least four Zomis and two Kukis got injured in the clash and around 25 persons from the two communities were also injured in the tear gas shell firing the police said. The injured persons were rushed to the Churachandpur District hospital for medical treatment. In the backdrop of the prevailing situation Dharun Kuma, IAS District Magistrate, Churachandpur district order states in the exercise of the power conferred under section 144(2) CPC 1973 extends and declares a prohibitory order for two months from 18th December 2023 to 18th February 2024 until further orders, the order states.
The whole area is under revenue jurisdiction of Churachandpur district mainly Thingkangphi village and its adjoining areas. The order also prohibits the gathering of five or more persons and prohibits the carrying of arms, sticks, swords, chemicals or any other illegal weapons. The order does not apply to the agencies of the Government involved in the enforcement of law and order as well as maintenance of essential services the order states.