Imphal, Feb 9 (NationPress) Tensions are ongoing in various regions of Manipur’s Ukhrul district as of Monday, following a series of clashes and the destruction of at least 20 homes belonging to members of the Naga and Kuki tribal groups, according to officials. A police representative in Imphal reported that suspected armed militants set fire to multiple homes in Litan Sareikhong village on Sunday night, which was triggered by a severe assault on a member of the Tangkhul Naga community by a group of individuals.

On Sunday evening and into the night, intense stone-pelting occurred between Naga and Kuki tribal factions at Litan village, leading the district administration to implement prohibitory orders. The Tangkhul is recognized as the largest Naga tribe in Manipur, while Litan Sareikhong is primarily populated by members of the Kuki community.

District Magistrate Asish Das issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, on Sunday night, citing reliable reports that indicated a probable breach of peace between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities at Litan village.

“Such disturbances could lead to serious breaches of peace, jeopardizing public tranquillity and endangering lives and property. Given the current circumstances, immediate action is essential, making the service of notice impractical,” the order emphasized.

The District Magistrate has restricted the movement of individuals outside their residences and prohibited any actions that might disrupt the existing law and order in the affected areas until further notice.

Manipur’s Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who also holds leadership in the Naga community, has been present in the unrest-affected area since Sunday, engaging with local residents to help ease tensions. He has also convened meetings with leaders from the Foothills Naga Coordinating Committee (FNCC) and the Joint Tribes Council (JTC) at his Lamphel residence, accompanied by senior BJP leader L Newmai.

An emergency meeting took place on Monday with local residents at the Litan Police station to stabilize the situation. Additional central forces have been deployed in Mahadev, Lambui, Shangkai, and other sensitive areas leading to Litan village to avert further escalation and ensure law and order.

On Sunday evening, security forces utilized tear gas shells to disperse the clashing Naga and Kuki factions at Litan Sareikhong village.

In light of public convenience and the pressing need for transportation between Ukhrul and Imphal, the Manipur government has arranged a special helicopter service for Tuesday on the Imphal-Ukhrul-Imphal route. The government is also planning to schedule two additional helicopter services on February 11 on the same route. These special services will operate in addition to the regular schedule, as stated by Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Anurag Bajpai in a notification. He assured that the state government is dedicated to providing uninterrupted transportation services to the residents of Manipur.