Imphal, February 17: Tensions continue to escalate between the Naga and Kuki communities in the northeastern state of Manipur. In a precautionary move, police have evacuated 51 students from the Kuki tribal community from a school in the predominantly Naga district of Ukhrul. This decision was made following clashes and subsequent violence reported in the area.
Since February 7, attacks and counterattacks have been ongoing between members of the Tangkhul Naga tribe and the Kuki community, leading to heightened tensions. Over 30 houses were set ablaze during the skirmishes in the Litang Sarei Khong village.
A police officer from Imphal stated that the evacuation took place at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in Ramva, where the 51 Kuki students were safely escorted to the Sakul police station before being transferred to JNV Kangpokpi.
The officer revealed that among the evacuated students, there are 20 girls and 31 boys. Due to the current law and order situation in Ukhrul district, examination centers for 18 students in grades 10 and 12 have been relocated to JNV Kangpokpi. Additionally, other Kuki students from JNV Ramva were also evacuated as a precaution.
The statement further noted that during the evacuation process, some individuals initially mistook the students for troublemakers. However, the cooperation of various local organizations played a crucial role in calming the situation.
Efforts by villagers from Shangshak, Ramva, Shokvao, TM Kasam, and S. Laho areas helped ensure the safe passage of the students to the Litang police station, despite the rising tensions in the region.
Manipur police have appealed to all communities to maintain restraint and avoid spreading rumors during this sensitive time.
The violence initially erupted on February 7 in the tribal-dominated area when a member of the Tangkhul Naga community was allegedly attacked in Litang village. The ongoing unrest has severely disrupted the movement of vehicles, including public transport, on the Imphal-Ukhrul road.
After signs of improvement in the situation, the state government lifted a five-day internet ban imposed in Ukhrul district and parts of Kamjong and Kangpokpi districts.
Naga leader and Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, Loci Dikho, affirmed the state government’s commitment to restoring peace in the area while also promoting sports and youth engagement.
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