Suspected militants reportedly set fire to multiple houses and vehicles in Litan Sareikhong and surrounding areas of Ukhrul district, Manipur, during the early hours of Monday. The region has experienced heightened tension since Saturday night following an alleged assault on a member of the Tangkhul community by a group of seven to eight individuals in Litan village, which sparked further unrest. Intense stone-pelting incidents ensued between two tribal groups, prompting local authorities to enforce prohibitory orders to contain the situation.
The arson primarily targeted homes belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community, although some properties of the Kuki community in adjacent locations were also reported to be set ablaze. The Tangkhuls represent the largest Naga tribe in Manipur, while Litan Sareikhong is predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community. Social media has circulated videos depicting the militants in camouflage uniforms, armed with advanced weaponry, discharging multiple rounds into the air in Litan.
In response to the escalating violence, additional security forces have been deployed to strategic routes leading to Litan to ensure law enforcement and curb any further conflicts, particularly between the Tangkhul and Kuki communities. With fears of a threatened peace and civil order, the Ukhrul district administration enacted a complete prohibition under Sub-Section 1 of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. This order restricts individual movement outside residences and prohibits any activities that may disrupt law and order within the designated area, effective from 7 PM on February 8, 2026, until further notice.