Curfew imposed, villagers flee amid rising tensions between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities; leaders promise calm, but no concrete solution emerges
Imphal: Litan Sareikhong in Manipur’s Ukhrul district has once again descended into fear and destruction after renewed violence left more than 30 houses gutted and forced scores of families to flee, exposing the fragility of ongoing peace efforts.
Earlier on February 7, miscreants set fire to at least 24 homes, most belonging to the Tangkhul community, while four belonged to Kuki families. The attacks continued the next afternoon when seven more houses were torched despite the presence of security personnel. Gunshots were reportedly heard, triggering panic and mass displacement.
As clashes spread to nearby areas, residents abandoned their homes, escaping in trucks, private vehicles and on foot with whatever belongings they could carry. Police confirmed that 25 houses and four government quarters were destroyed. A curfew was imposed and heavy forces, including the CRPF, BSF, Assam Rifles and additional army units, were deployed to prevent further escalation.
An emergency meeting involving Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, local MLAs and community leaders sought to restore calm. While both sides publicly agreed to maintain peace, no binding agreement or roadmap emerged. Authorities instead relied on increased security deployment.
Community leaders stressed that the conflict stems from unresolved land ownership and historical rights. Tangkhul Naga Long president Eno Sword Vashum warned that peace cannot last unless legitimate land claims are addressed.
On the ground, charred houses and deserted streets reflect deep mistrust and trauma. Despite official assurances, fear persists and the situation remains tense. Without a clear political and legal solution to the land dispute, observers warn that Litan risks further unrest, making lasting peace seem distant and uncertain.
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