Manipur: Tension Rises Again in Ukhrul Following Firing Incidents in Several Areas
Manipur: On Thursday, fresh incidents of firing were reported from multiple locations in Manipur’s Ukhrul district, further escalating tensions in an already volatile region.
According to police sources, the first incident of firing occurred around 4 PM, when a group of suspected Kuki militants—allegedly armed with heavy weaponry—attempted to infiltrate Sirarakhong village. This village falls within the territory of the Tangkhul Naga community. Local volunteers from the village resisted their intrusion, leading to an exchange of fire between the two sides that lasted for approximately 10 minutes. Subsequently, around 5 PM, reports of firing also emerged from the Lungtar hill area near Sinakeithei village; both of these locations fall under the jurisdiction of the Litan Police Station. Officials confirmed reports of firing from a third location—Mongket Chepu village—suggesting that this may have been a coordinated attack.
A police official expressed apprehension that automatic assault rifles, as well as single-barrel weapons, were utilized in these incidents, although the identities of the groups involved have not yet been established.
As of late evening, no official reports regarding casualties had been received. Amidst intermittent reports of firing from various parts of the district, security forces have been placed on high alert.
Meanwhile, officials from Sinakeithei village alleged that armed groups belonging to the Kuki community opened fire from bunkers that had previously been dismantled; their fire was reportedly directed at the village settlement. However, this claim could not be independently verified.
These incidents have unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, which have persisted since February 7. On that day, a minor altercation between members of the two communities had escalated into large-scale violent clashes. Following these clashes, more than 50 houses belonging to members of both communities were set ablaze.
