Imphal, February 10 – Fresh violence between Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur’s Ukhrul district has prompted the state government to suspend internet services for five days. Police officials confirmed the development on Tuesday, highlighting the fragile law and order situation in the hilly region.
The clashes erupted in Litan Sareikhong village, where armed miscreants torched over eight houses—mostly vacant—and fired multiple rounds. In the past 48 hours, more than 30 homes and properties have been reduced to ashes. The violence reportedly stemmed from an alleged attack on a Tangkhul Naga individual by Kuki community members, escalating longstanding tensions.
Authorities have deployed additional central paramilitary forces alongside local police in sensitive areas. A senior officer noted that the situation remains tense, but concerted efforts are underway to restore calm. Curfew has been imposed in affected zones, and a joint control room has been set up at Litan police station for better coordination.
In a official notification, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar warned that anti-social elements could exploit social media to spread inflammatory content, further deteriorating the scenario. Consequently, all broadband, VPN, and VSAT internet services stand suspended temporarily to prevent misinformation.
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, himself from the Naga community, has been camping in the area since Sunday, engaging with locals to de-escalate matters. The Tangkhul Nagas form the largest Naga group in Manipur, while Kukis dominate the population in Litan Sareikhong.
Opposition Congress leader Keshm Meghachandra Singh expressed grave concern, slamming the government for failing to curb violence despite a new administration. ‘This outbreak sows fear and uncertainty when unity is paramount,’ he stated, urging decisive action to restore peace.
Background reveals that Sunday evening saw intense stone-pelting between the groups, leading to prohibitory orders under BNSS 2023 Section 163 by Ukhrul District Magistrate Ashish Das. Security forces resorted to tear gas to disperse crowds. As senior officials monitor developments on-ground, the focus remains on preventing further escalation in this ethnically charged district.