Tensions Rise in Manipur as Abandoned Houses Set Ablaze

Tensions have flared in Manipur's Kanto Sabal area following the arson of three abandoned houses, leading to a significant security response. The incident has raised fears of renewed violence in a region already affected by ethnic strife. Local residents reported a large group approaching the area before the fire, while police have labeled those involved as 'miscreants.' As security forces intervened to prevent further escalation, the situation remains tense. This article delves into the details of the incident and the ongoing security measures in place.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 17:41 IST

Escalating Tensions in Kanto Sabal

Tension erupts in Manipur as mob advances towards Kanto Sabal while security forces tries to control the situation on Saturday (Photo: AT)

Imphal, July 11: Fresh unrest has emerged in the Kanto Sabal region of Manipur following the arson of three abandoned homes, prompting a significant security response and raising concerns about a potential resurgence of violence in the area.

At the time of this report, no injuries had been reported.

According to the Manipur Police, an attempt by "miscreants" to ignite the abandoned structures was quickly suppressed, and a criminal case has been initiated.

"The attempt to set fire to the abandoned houses was swiftly contained, ensuring no casualties. A case has been filed, and further actions are underway," stated the police.

Security forces intervened when approximately 600 individuals attempted to approach Kanto Sabal, a sensitive border area between Kangpokpi and Imphal West districts.

"The crowd attempted to advance towards Kanto Sabal. Security Forces acted promptly to avert a possible communal clash," the statement continued.

Reports indicate that three vacant houses belonging to displaced Meitei families were set ablaze in broad daylight at the Ex-Servicemen Colony in Kanto Sabal.

These homes are among several that have been left empty since residents fled during the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki groups that erupted in May 2023.

While the details surrounding the incident and the identities of those responsible for the arson remain unverified, local resident Thokchom Rebubala Devi claimed that a large group approached Kanto Sabal from the nearby hillside shortly before the fire.

"I live in Kanto Sabal. Around noon today, we observed over 200 individuals marching towards parts of Kanto Sabal," she reported.

Rebubala further alleged that some individuals descended from the hills, ignited the abandoned houses, and then retreated.

"When we noticed the houses burning, we gathered to approach the site, but security forces prevented us from doing so," she added.

As tensions heightened and crowds converged from various directions, security forces deployed tear gas and conducted a lathi-charge to disperse the gathering and prevent further escalation.

Additional security personnel were dispatched to the scene.

However, there has been no independent verification of the claims regarding the individuals responsible for the arson.

In their official communication, the Manipur Police referred to those involved merely as "miscreants" without identifying any specific community or detailing the incident's triggers.

Kanto Sabal is situated in a highly sensitive area near the Leimakhong Army camp, along the boundary between the Kuki-majority Kangpokpi district and the Meitei-majority Imphal West district.

The region has remained susceptible to tensions since the onset of ethnic violence in the state. "The Security Force is dedicated to maintaining peace and order," the police affirmed.