Manipur’s fragile peace shattered again in Ukhrul as Naga-Kuki hostilities led to arson sprees and shootouts, culminating in a five-day internet suspension by authorities. Police updates on Tuesday underscore the gravity, with Litan Sareikhong at the epicenter.
Armed intruders razed over eight vacant dwellings and peppered the area with gunfire, part of a 48-hour rampage destroying 30-plus properties. This follows Kuki restrictions imposed by Tangkhul Naga bodies and an alleged attack sparking the feud.
Security has been beefed up with paramilitary influx, curfews, and a control room at Litan station ensuring rapid response. The home secretary’s directive flags social media risks, halting all internet facets to curb rumor mills and hate propagation.
Deputy CM Losii Dikho, a Naga leader, remains on-site since Sunday, fostering talks in a village Kuki-heavy amid Tangkhul dominance. Sunday’s stone battles prompted BNSS curbs and tear gas, yet tensions linger.
Opposition firebrand Keshm Meghachandra lambasted the regime: ‘Violence persists post-elections, emblematic of fragility—act now!’ His plea echoes public anxiety over recurring ethnic divides threatening Manipur’s social fabric.
As forces coordinate vigilantly, the blackout aims to isolate agitators, buying time for de-escalation. This episode revives memories of deeper tribal rifts, demanding sustained governance focus beyond temporary fixes.