What Led to the Police Evacuating Kuki Students from Ukhrul?
Synopsis
In a significant precautionary move, 51 Kuki students were evacuated from a school in Ukhrul, Manipur due to rising tensions between the Naga and Kuki communities. This evacuation highlights the ongoing clashes and the urgent need for community harmony and peace in the region.
Key Takeaways
51 Kuki students evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Ongoing tensions between Naga and Kuki communities have resulted in violence.
Local organizations played a vital role in ensuring student safety.
Authorities are urging restraint and communication to avoid further conflict.
Transportation and public services have been disrupted due to the clashes.
Imphal, Feb 17 (NationPress) In light of escalating tensions between the Naga and Kuki communities, the Manipur Police have taken precautionary measures by evacuating 51 students from the Kuki tribal community from a school located in the Naga-prevalent Ukhrul district. This evacuation comes in response to recent violence and clashes, as confirmed by officials on Tuesday.
Since February 7, the conflict has intensified between members of the Tangkhul Naga tribe and the Kuki community in Ukhrul, with reports indicating that over 30 homes were set ablaze during altercations in Litan Sareikhong village, which borders Nagaland and Myanmar.
A police representative in Imphal reported that the evacuation was executed smoothly, with 51 Kuki students from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Ramva, being escorted to the Saikul Police Station for further transport to JNV Kangpokpi.
“The evacuated students included 20 girls and 31 boys from the Kuki community. The examination centers for 18 of these students, in Class 10 and 12, have been relocated to JNV Kangpokpi due to the ongoing law and order issues in Ukhrul,” the police official elaborated.
During the evacuation, some locals initially misidentified the students as troublemakers, but the intervention of various local organizations was vital in calming tensions. Their efforts to convince residents in areas such as Shangshak, Ramva, Shokvao, TM Kasom, and S. Laho facilitated the safe transit of the students to Litan Police Station, despite the prevailing unrest.
The Manipur Police have issued a call for all communities to exercise restraint during this delicate time and to avoid spreading misinformation.
The violence began on February 7 when a member of the Tangkhul Naga community was reportedly attacked by some individuals in Litan village. The ongoing strife in Litan Sareikhong has significantly disrupted transportation, including public transport services along the Imphal–Ukhrul route since last week.
As conditions have shown signs of improvement, the state government recently lifted the five-day internet shutdown in Ukhrul district and parts of Kamjong and Kangpokpi districts. The prohibitory orders imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, were also revoked last week.
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, also a prominent Naga leader, emphasized the government's dedication to restoring harmony in the area while fostering engagement through sports and youth initiatives.
Point of View
The situation in Manipur underscores the fragile nature of communal relations in the region. As reports of violence emerge, it is crucial for all parties to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions. The role of local organizations in facilitating the safe evacuation of students highlights the importance of community solidarity in times of conflict. Nation must prioritize harmony and collective security.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Kuki students evacuated?
The Kuki students were evacuated as a precautionary measure due to ongoing tensions and violent clashes between the Naga and Kuki communities in Ukhrul.
How many students were evacuated?
A total of 51 Kuki students were evacuated from their school in Ukhrul.
What measures are being taken to ensure safety?
The Manipur Police have called for restraint among all communities and are facilitating safe evacuations while monitoring the situation closely.
What triggered the violence in Ukhrul?
The violence began on February 7, following an alleged assault on a member of the Tangkhul Naga community.
What is the current situation in Ukhrul?
The situation is tense but has shown signs of improvement, with recent internet restrictions lifted and prohibitory orders revoked.
