Violence Erupts in Manipurs Kamjong District, Homes Set Ablaze Amid Community Tensions

Kamjong, October 18 (Daily Kiran) : In a troubling escalation of violence, suspected militants reportedly set fire to at least 15 homes in Chassad village, located in Kamjong district, Manipur. This incident forced members of the Kuki tribal community to flee into nearby forests and seek refuge at a security forces camp. Local officials confirmed the events on Sunday.

The violence began earlier on Saturday, when gunfire erupted in the village, resulting in the death of a Kuki community member, Seikhaohao Haokip. Four others sustained gunshot wounds during the incident. The subsequent arson attack on homes occurred late Saturday night.

Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the violence and expressed sorrow over Haokip’s death. He voiced concern for the injured villagers and displaced families, labeling the arson as an intolerable crime. Kipgen instructed the district administration, state police, and security forces to maintain constant vigilance, protect citizens and their property, and ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.

To restore order in the affected area, a joint team of Assam Rifles, Border Security Force (BSF), and Kamjong police has been deployed.

In a separate incident that same night, three civilians from the Tangkhul Naga community were injured by gunfire at the Kamjong district headquarters. Reports indicate that rival armed groups were involved. The injured individuals, identified as T. Chithung, S. Malung, and M. Shithung, have been admitted to Kamjong hospital, where their condition is reported as stable.

Both Chassad village and the Kamjong district headquarters are situated near the India-Myanmar border. This sensitive area has faced security challenges due to tensions among armed groups.

Local residents reported fleeing their homes due to fears for their safety. Chassad police station was informed of the incidents on Sunday. However, a lack of police personnel has hampered on-site investigations. The full extent of the damage caused by the arson, the circumstances surrounding the attacks, and the identities of those involved remain unconfirmed.

The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), a leading organization representing the Kuki-Zo tribal community, issued a statement highlighting the deteriorating security situation in Kamjong district, particularly in Chassad village. They noted that four Kuki-Zo citizens have been killed in just over a week, underscoring the government’s failure to protect innocent lives.

The KZC questioned why cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) are allegedly allowed to operate freely in Kamjong, Ukhrul, and Chandel districts while the ceasefire arrangements are meant to be confined to Nagaland.

The organization called for the Indian government to clarify the situation and take immediate action to prevent further attacks. They also reported that an economic blockade is allegedly preventing Kuki-Zo citizens from purchasing essential goods.

The KZC demanded the immediate deployment of central security forces between the police station and Chassad village to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential items and the safety of citizens. They appealed to both the Indian and Manipur governments to ensure the protection of civilians, take action against those responsible for the violence, provide compensation to the families of the deceased, and assist those who lost their homes in the arson.

The organization emphasized that Kuki-Zo community members are citizens of India and are entitled to equal protection under the Constitution. They urged the government to take swift measures to prevent further loss of life and to ensure the safety and dignity of the community.