Violence Erupts in Manipur Following NSCN-IM Cadres' Deaths

Tensions have surged in Manipur's Ukhrul district after an angry mob set fire to the NSCN-IM office, triggered by the deaths of four cadres in an ambush. The incident has led to public outrage and demands for accountability, with the NSCN-IM denying involvement in the attack. Security forces are closely monitoring the situation as fears of escalating violence loom. This developing story highlights the ongoing factional tensions in the region, raising concerns about future conflicts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 29, 2026, 18:18 IST

Tensions Rise in Ukhrul District

Imphal, Mar 29: On Sunday evening, unrest escalated in Ukhrul district of Manipur when a furious crowd set ablaze the Wung Tangkhul Region Secretariat of the NSCN-IM. This incident occurred just hours after four members of the NSCN (Eastern Flank) were killed in an ambush near the Indo-Myanmar border.

Witnesses reported that a significant number of people gathered in Ukhrul town, leading to the arson, which reflects the growing public outrage following the recent fatalities.

The ambush took place late Saturday night near Hongbei village along the Imphal–Kasom Khullen road, resulting in the deaths of the four cadres around 9:20 pm.

This event has sparked allegations regarding the involvement of NSCN-IM, further escalating tensions in the area.

As news of the ambush spread, local residents expressed their anger, demanding accountability for the incident, which ultimately led to the attack on the office.

Earlier, the NSCN-IM publicly denied any orders for the ambush, labeling it a “botched operation” and promising that those responsible would be identified and held accountable.

In a statement from its Publicity and Information Bureau, the General Headquarters of the Naga Army clarified that no orders had been issued for any offensive actions against other groups at this time.

The recent events have raised alarms about a potential increase in violence in a region already marked by factional conflicts and armed confrontations.

Security forces are actively monitoring the situation, as concerns about possible retaliatory actions grow alongside demands for justice following the killings.

This story is still developing, and further updates are anticipated.