Fresh arson hits Litan, Ukhrul amid heavy security presence

Fresh incidents of arson and gunfire were reported in Manipur’s conflict-hit Litan area of Ukhrul district on Thursday, a day after violence had appeared to subside following a 24-hour lull.
According to reports, at least four structures, including three abandoned houses, were set ablaze around 9.40 am. Sounds of gunfire were also heard in the area.
Litan has been tense since February 7, when a violent clash between two neighbouring villages belonging to the Tangkhul and Kuki communities broke out following a brawl involving individuals from both sides. More than 70 houses and structures have been reduced to ashes so far.
Although the situation had relatively calmed on Wednesday, the fourth day of the conflict, fresh arson incidents were reported despite heavy deployment of police and security forces and the imposition of curfew restricting movement of villagers.
The latest arson was followed by several rounds of gunfire. Villagers alleged that the firing originated from a newly constructed girls’ hostel at Maokot village, a Kuki village located along the Imphal-Ukhrul road. The abandoned houses were reportedly torched when displaced Tangkhul villagers attempted to return to inspect the remains of their homes. Security forces allegedly stopped them, leading to a brief scuffle. Tear gas shells were fired as some villagers tried to force their way into the village.
Protesters accused security forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, of acting in collusion with suspected attackers and failing to respond despite alleged continuous firing from nearby hill slopes. The continued incidents of arson despite the heavy presence of CRPF, BSF, Bihar Regiment, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, Manipur Rifles and VDF personnel have fueled public anger and suspicion.
Amid concerns over a possible spillover of the violence to neighbouring Senapati and Kangpokpi districts, the Assam Rifles convened a security coordination meeting with Naga and Kuki civil society organisations at Kangpokpi district headquarters on Wednesday.
In a social media post, the Assam Rifles stated that the meeting aimed to prevent escalation of the situation and maintain peace and harmony in the region.