Tensions are high in Manipur's Ukhrul district following a violent outbreak in Litan Sareikhong and surrounding areas. A curfew has been imposed after several houses were set ablaze on the night of February 8th, allegedly by armed militants. The incident follows reports of intense stone-pelting between two tribal groups, creating a volatile atmosphere in Litan Sareikhong and the nearby village of Sikibung since Sunday evening.
Reports indicate that the arson occurred around midnight, with houses belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community allegedly targeted by Kuki militants. In retaliation, some houses belonging to the Kuki community were also reportedly set on fire in nearby locations. Litan Sareikhong is a Kuki-dominated village, while the Tangkhuls are the largest Naga tribe in Manipur. Sources state that a rural bank and at least nine houses belonging to the Naga community were set ablaze, while three houses of the Kuki community were also destroyed in the violence. Other reports indicate that 25 houses and four government quarters were burned down. Preliminary assessments from officials at the Litan police station noted that the damaged structures included two houses belonging to members of the Kuki community.
Video footage circulating on social media allegedly depicts armed men, dressed in camouflage uniforms and carrying sophisticated weapons, setting fire to houses and vehicles in the Litan area. The footage reportedly shows militants firing multiple rounds into the air.
The violence has caused widespread panic, with hundreds of people fleeing their homes in Litan and Mangkot villages. Residents from both the Kuki and Naga communities are leaving the area in large numbers, seeking safety and carrying whatever belongings they can. People are leaving in trucks, private vehicles, and on foot.
The recent clashes appear to have been triggered by a dispute that occurred on February 7 during a drinking session in Sirarakhong. During the altercation, a Tangkhul Naga youth named Sterling was allegedly assaulted and later hospitalized in Imphal with serious injuries.
In response to the escalating situation, security forces, including the BSF, CRPF, and Assam Rifles, have been deployed to the area. Additional troops from the Bihar Regiment and Mahar Regiment have also been sent to help control the situation. The District Magistrate of Ukhrul has imposed an indefinite curfew in Litan village. The order states that there is an apprehension of a breach of peace and public tranquility in Litan Village between the Tangkhul and Kuki communities, posing risks to human lives and property.
मणिपुर के मुख्यमंत्री वाई. खेमचंद ने घटना की निंदा की और ग्रामीणों से शांति बनाए रखने की अपील की. Saikul MLA Kimneo Haokip from the Kuki community and Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah from the Tangkhul Naga community have visited the area. The Chief Minister has also added a special helicopter service for Imphal-Ukhrul-Imphal.
Litan, a small commercial town located approximately 35 km from Imphal, is home to both Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities and serves as a local trade center for nearby villages. A senior police officer stated that the situation is under control but tension remains in the village. An FIR has been registered, and an investigation is underway.