Manipur Violence Flares Up Again: 15 Houses Torched In Kamjong, One Killed In Gunfire

Imphal: Tension between the Kuki and Naga communities in Manipur has once again escalated into violent incidents. At least 15 houses of the Kuki community were set on fire by suspected armed assailants in Chassad village of Kamjong district on Saturday night. Earlier in the firing on Saturday, one person was killed, while several others were injured. Due to the violence, a large number of people had to leave their homes and take shelter in the forests and around the army camp. Security forces have been deployed in the affected area. 

Why did violence erupt in Chassad village?

On Saturday, October 17, suspected armed men opened fire at Chassad village in Manipur's hill district Kamjong. According to police officials, the firing that started around 2:30 pm led to an encounter between local armed groups. There were reports of firing intermittently till evening. Many people of the village were injured in this incident. The injured were evacuated by Assam Rifles soldiers and taken to the paramilitary hospital at Chassad. 36-year-old Seikhohau died during treatment. 

Why were people forced to take shelter in the forests?

According to officials, many families had to move to safe places after the fire incident in Chassad village late Saturday night. At least 15 houses are reported to have been burnt. This sudden incident spread panic among the villagers. The local people were faced with the challenge of saving homes and property as well as ensuring the safety of family members. At present, the identity of those responsible for the arson and the circumstances of the incident are being investigated.

What is the incident of firing on Naga civilians in Kamjong?

In another incident of violence, three civil defence volunteers from Tangkhul Naga community were reported shot near Kamjong district headquarters. A statement issued by the Naga Village Guard held suspected Kuki militants responsible for the attack. The organisation has also accused members of the Kuki National Army-Burma and the Village Volunteers of Eastern Zone. However, these allegations have not been independently confirmed. Therefore, the role of any organisation cannot be considered an established fact before the investigation is completed.

What steps did the security forces take to handle the situation?

According to police, a joint contingent of Assam Rifles, Border Security Force and Kamjong Police has been deployed in the affected area. Its objective is to control violence, ensure safety of civilians and restore normalcy in the area. Manipur Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen condemned the violence in Chassad and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed concern over the condition of the injured and displaced families. He instructed the administration and security forces to remain alert and ensure action against the culprits. 

What is the wider impact of Kuki-Naga tension?

Apart from Kamjong, incidents of violence have also been reported in Kangpokpi, Ukhrul and surrounding hilly areas due to tension between Kuki and Naga communities in Manipur. Even in the early days of October, many people lost their lives in incidents of firing, ambushes and arson of houses. These incidents have increased concerns about security arrangements in the border areas. Demand for deployment of additional security forces has also been raised by local communities and organisations. 

Will peace be restored in the area?

Amidst the continuous firing and arson, the biggest challenge is the safety of civilians and the return of displaced families to their homes. The administration has the responsibility of identifying those involved in violence, controlling illegal weapons and reducing tension between the two communities.

At present, deployment of security forces has been increased in the affected areas of Chassad and Kamjong. For the situation to become normal and people to return safely, it will be necessary that the investigation be completed in a fair manner and action be taken against the culprits as per law.