Conflict – Manipur unrest deepens after deadly factional clash
Conflict – Tensions gripped parts of Manipur’s hill districts on Monday following the killing of four members linked to a faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM). The incident, believed to be the result of an internal conflict between rival groups, has heightened anxiety in both Ukhrul and Kamjong districts.
Deadly encounter sparks unrest in Kamjong
According to officials, the violence unfolded on Saturday in Hongbei village of Kamjong district, where six armed members of the NSCN-IM’s Eastern Flank faction were reportedly ambushed. Four of them lost their lives in the attack, while two managed to escape. Authorities suspect that the assault was carried out by a rival faction, though details remain under investigation.
The recovery of the bodies on Sunday intensified the situation, with local residents expressing anger and concern over the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Public anger leads to arson incident
In a swift reaction, a group of agitated locals set fire to the NSCN-IM’s Wung regional office in neighbouring Ukhrul district. While the building sustained damage, no injuries were reported during the incident. The act reflected the rising frustration among sections of the community following the killings.
Civil society groups demand accountability
Several Naga organisations, including student bodies and community groups, strongly condemned the incident. Organisations such as the Tangkhul Naga Long and the Kaishan Students’ Union described the killings as deeply troubling, especially at a time when the region is already dealing with multiple social and political challenges.
These groups have called for a fair and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure justice for those who lost their lives. They stressed the importance of accountability to prevent further escalation of tensions.
Families seek clarity before last rites
Amid lingering uncertainty, reports indicate that the families of the deceased have declined to perform funeral rites. They have insisted on receiving a clear and credible explanation regarding the circumstances of the deaths before proceeding with final rituals. This stance underscores the demand for transparency and answers from authorities.
Government appeals for calm and restraint
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh urged residents, particularly the Tangkhul Naga community in Ukhrul, to remain calm and support efforts to restore normalcy. In an official statement, he acknowledged that the situation remains tense and appealed to all groups to avoid further violence.
Expressing grief over the incident, the Chief Minister emphasized that conflict cannot resolve underlying issues and assured that the government is committed to taking appropriate action. He stated that the law would address those responsible once investigations are complete.
Dialogue held to address rising tensions
On Sunday, a delegation of civil society representatives from Ukhrul met the Chief Minister at the Secretariat, accompanied by State Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh. The meeting focused on the prevailing unrest, security concerns, and developmental challenges in the district.
The Chief Minister later shared that maintaining peace is essential for long-term development and urged collective efforts to rebuild trust and stability in the region.
Background of recent tensions in the region
The latest incident adds to a series of developments that have unsettled the region in recent weeks. Earlier in March, a group of 21 civilians from the Tangkhul Naga community was briefly detained by armed individuals in Ukhrul district while travelling along the Ukhrul–Imphal road. They were released the following day after intervention by community leaders and law enforcement agencies.
NSCN-IM denies involvement in planned attack
In response to the killings, the NSCN-IM issued a statement denying that its central leadership had authorised any such operation. The group stated that an internal inquiry is underway to determine the facts and identify those responsible.
The statement also warned against misinformation, urging the public to remain cautious about unverified reports circulating on social media.
As investigations continue, the situation in Ukhrul and Kamjong remains sensitive, with authorities closely monitoring developments and appealing for peace.