Violence has escalated in the Litan area of Manipur’s Naga-majority Ukhrul district, where tensions between Naga and Kuki-Zo communities have intensified. Many homes were set ablaze on Tuesday morning, following an outbreak of unrest that began with an alleged assault on a Tangkhul Naga man by Kuki-Zo individuals. Prohibitory orders and the presence of security forces have failed to quell the violence, which has left several injured, including law enforcement personnel.
Civil society organizations from both communities met on Monday, appealing for peace in the presence of political leaders, but tensions endure. Official reports estimate that 27 to 28 houses were burned between Sunday and Monday, with local claims suggesting over ten additional homes were destroyed on Tuesday morning. Gunfire reports compound the atmosphere of fear.
In response to escalating violence, the state government has arranged special helicopter services to maintain connectivity between Ukhrul and the Imphal valley. Meanwhile, security forces made notable arrests of three members of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (Apunba) related to a recent bombing incident in Imphal West. The ongoing ethnic conflict, which began in May 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 260 individuals and mass displacement across Manipur.