Gunfight at multiple locations in Manipur’s Ukhrul triggers fresh tensions

A gunfight broke out at multiple locations in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on March 19, triggering fresh tensions in an already volatile region, officials said.

According to police sources, the exchange of fire began around 4 pm when suspected Kuki militants, reportedly armed with heavy weapons, attempted to enter Sirarakhong village, a Tangkhul Naga-dominated area. Local village volunteers resisted the entry, leading to a gunfight that lasted approximately 10 minutes.

The violence subsequently spread to the Lungter hill range near Sinakeithei village around 5 pm. Both locations fall under the Litan Police Station in the Ukhrul district. Officials later confirmed that firing was also reported from a third location, Mongket Chepu village, indicating a possible coordinated escalation.

“The incident could be a coordinated attack. We heard sounds consistent with automatic assault rifles and single-barrel guns, but the exact groups involved are yet to be confirmed,” a police official told India Today. 

No casualties had been officially reported at the time of filing this report, though security forces have been placed on high alert across the area.

Authorities said the situation remains tense, with intermittent firing reported from at least three locations.

Meanwhile, the village authority of Sinakeithei alleged that armed Kuki groups fired from previously dismantled bunker positions targeting their settlement. The claim could not be independently verified.

The latest violence comes against the backdrop of simmering tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities since February 7, when a drunken altercation escalated into wider clashes. In the aftermath, more than 50 houses belonging to both communities were set ablaze, deepening mistrust.

In an effort to de-escalate tensions, a high-level meeting was held in February at Litan Police Station involving Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Saikul MLA Kimneo Haokip, and Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah, along with representatives of civil society groups. The meeting had concluded that the earlier clash was triggered under intoxication and warned of strict action against those instigating violence.

Despite those efforts, today's incidents suggest that the situation in parts of the Ukhrul district remains fragile and prone to flare-ups. Security forces are monitoring the developments closely.