Manipur violence : Curfew after Kuki-Naga tension

Agartala, Jan 11, 2025, By Our Correspondent74

Curfew was imposed in Kangchup Geljang sub-division of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Saturday following escalating tensions between the Naga and Kuki-Zo communities, while in a separate incident, a mob destroyed an Assam Rifles makeshift camp in Kamjong district, officials reported.

The tension in Kangchup Geljang has been simmering for three days, fueled by a territorial dispute between Naga-dominated Konsakhul village and Kuki-Zo-inhabited Leilon Vaiphei village. The villagers of Konsakhul claim Leilon Vaiphei village falls within their territory, a claim strongly contested by the residents of Leilon Vaiphei. Amid the discord, allegations surfaced that a Naga woman was assaulted on January 7, further aggravating the situation.

Minor clashes broke out between the two villages, prompting District Magistrate Mahesh Chaudhari to impose an indefinite public curfew in the area under the BNSS Act, 2023. The curfew prohibits all movement in and around the conflict zones of Konsakhul and Leilon Vaiphei until further notice. No injuries were reported in the clashes, but officials are maintaining strict surveillance to prevent further escalation.

In Kamjong district, a mob attacked and destroyed a makeshift camp of the Assam Rifles on Saturday over alleged harassment and restrictions on the transport of timber intended for house construction in Kasom Khullen village. Police reported that tensions flared after Assam Rifles personnel reportedly imposed restrictions on transporting timber, leading to a confrontation. The Assam Rifles used tear gas and fired warning shots into the air to disperse the mob. No injuries were reported during the incident, but the destruction of the camp has raised concerns about maintaining order in the district.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely in both districts to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of residents.