Ukhrul, April 29: The volatile situation in Manipur remains tense as fresh violence broke out in the Ukhrul district on Tuesday. At least three individuals sustained injuries during an intense exchange of fire between two armed groups in Ringui village, causing widespread panic in the region.
According to police sources, the confrontation involved village volunteers from the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities. The intermittent firing, which reportedly began in the morning, continued late into the evening. Authorities confirmed that the three injured victims, identified as Tangkhul Naga volunteers, were immediately shifted to Ukhrul District Hospital for medical treatment.
Conflicting Claims Over the Skirmish
The Ringui Village Protection Committee has strongly condemned the incident, alleging that militants under a suspension of operations (SoO) pact initiated an "unprovoked attack" on Naga village guards using advanced weaponry. The committee termed the act as a direct threat to the peaceful co-existence of the locals.
"The sudden use of heavy arms against village volunteers is a violation of peace protocols. We demand an immediate investigation into this unprovoked aggression," a representative stated.
On the other hand, the Kuki Civil Society Organizations Working Committee has countered these allegations. In an official statement, they claimed that the clash occurred when Tangkhul armed groups opened fire on Kuki village volunteers while they were patrolling the hilly terrains of the Kampa Mol area.
Security Intensified as Tensions Mount
The Kuki leadership maintained that while they prioritize peace, they will not compromise on the security of their land and people. "Our people stand for peace, but protecting our rights and lives remains our primary duty," the Kuki organization's statement read.
The Manipur Police and paramilitary forces have intensified patrolling in the fringe areas of Ukhrul to prevent any further escalation. Senior officials are monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the ethnic conflict does not spread to neighboring villages. As of now, the district remains under high alert, and additional forces have been deployed in sensitive pockets to maintain law and order.
This latest incident in Ringui village highlights the fragile security landscape in the state, where inter-community tensions continue to challenge the administration's peace-building efforts.
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