Violence Erupts in Manipur: Security Forces Intensify Operations After Fatal Clash
Security Forces Mobilize in Response to Violence in Manipur
Imphal: Following a violent incident that resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries in Ukhrul district, security forces from both the central and state levels have ramped up their efforts to apprehend those responsible and prevent further unrest, according to officials.
A police representative in Imphal confirmed that security protocols have been significantly bolstered in the region to avert any additional outbreaks of violence. Ongoing operations are being conducted in nearby areas.
Ukhrul district, which borders Nagaland and Myanmar, is primarily populated by the Tangkhul Naga community.
Reports indicate that a fierce exchange of gunfire occurred in the Mullam village area under the jurisdiction of Litan police station on Friday, leading to the deaths of three individuals. The victims have been identified as Paominlun Haolai (22), Letlal Sitlhou (41), and Horshokmi Jamang (29).
Haolai and Sitlhou were members of the Kuki community, while Jamang belonged to the Tangkhul Naga community. They hailed from three different districts: Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Kamjong. The clash resulted in the destruction of numerous homes in Mullam village.
Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, Nemcha Kipgen, who is affiliated with the Thadou tribal community, condemned the violence and called for unity against such acts, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and secure society.
Kipgen expressed her outrage over the violence in Mullam village, stating that the senseless actions of armed individuals have devastated homes, caused property damage, and injured many innocent civilians, including women and children.
She remarked, "These barbaric acts against defenseless villagers are not only inhumane but also a direct attack on the very essence of our society. I extend my heartfelt solidarity to all victims and their families. In this time of sorrow, we deeply feel the pain of those who have lost their homes and sense of security."
The Minister, who oversees the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department, urged all communities to practice restraint. "At this critical moment, I earnestly appeal to everyone to maintain peace. Violence does not provide solutions; it only deepens wounds and hinders progress and development. We must reject hatred and come together to rebuild," she added.
In a related concern, the Thadou Inpi Manipur, the leading organization of the Thadou tribal community, expressed fears that a recurrence of the prolonged Kuki-Naga conflicts from the 1990s would be catastrophic, especially given the current tensions between Kuki and Meitei communities.
The organization urged all parties to avoid targeting the Thadou community in the ongoing conflict and advised its members to remain neutral and refrain from any violent actions.
In a separate incident, security forces discovered a stash of weapons and ammunition in Khumkot village, Chandel district, which included four single-barreled rifles, four Pompi rifles, seven Pompi shells, three grenades, a detonator, and five Baofeng radio sets with chargers.
Additionally, in a well-coordinated midnight operation, the Assam Rifles successfully rescued a 55-year-old man from Sengui village in Churachandpur district. A defense spokesperson stated that the operation was initiated following a formal request from local authorities to ensure the man's safety after a concerning video about him circulated on social media.
Acting promptly, Assam Rifles personnel, in collaboration with local police from Sangaikot and Chakpikarong, executed the evacuation without incident. The individual was safely transported and handed over to Chakpikarong Police Station for further action.
This successful operation underscores the effective collaboration between the Assam Rifles and local civil authorities in maintaining law and order, reaffirming their commitment to civilian protection and peace in Manipur.