Tensions Erupt in Manipur Over Land Dispute Between Kuki and Meitei Villagers

Conflict Erupts in Manipur's Border Areas

Imphal, Jun 15: On Sunday morning, tensions escalated in the border regions of Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts in Manipur as Kuki and Meitei villagers clashed, throwing stones and using slingshots over a land cultivation dispute, according to officials.

Officials reported that at least three individuals suffered minor injuries during the altercation, which occurred in Leitanpokpi, located in the Imphal East district.

According to police, the conflict began around 10 am when Meitei farmers attempted to plough a paddy field in Sadu Lampak village, which is adjacent to a Kuki settlement.

In response, Kuki villagers descended from the nearby hills in Kangpokpi district, expressing their objections to any cultivation activities on the land.

Nandeibam Mobi, a Meitei farmer involved in the ploughing, shared with reporters, "The field at Sadu Lampak has been unattended for the past two years due to ongoing conflict. However, with conditions improving, we sought to cultivate the land. We had received permission from security forces. When we began our work, a large group of Kuki villagers approached from a nearby hill village, contesting our presence on what we consider our land, claiming it as theirs."

The Leitanpokpi area has been a hotspot for armed confrontations between Kuki and Meitei factions since violence erupted in the state in May 2023.

Authorities stated that security forces are actively managing the situation, which is currently under control. Additional forces, along with the Superintendent of Police (SP), are closely monitoring the area.

Police noted, "Some Kuki villagers asserted that the paddy field does not belong to the Meiteis. Meanwhile, Meiteis also arrived at the scene, leading to heated arguments."