The Manipur unrest UKNA clash turned deadly on Tuesday, as a fierce gunfight between rival Kuki militant groups in Tengnoupal district claimed four lives. The deceased include three suspected insurgents and one civilian, who was caught in the crossfire. The United Kuki National Army (UKNA) later claimed responsibility for the attack, intensifying fears in the already volatile region.
This marks yet another flare-up in the long-running ethnic and insurgent crisis gripping the northeastern state.
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Fierce Gunbattle in Tengnoupal
According to police sources, the clash occurred near Saibol Khullen village in the early hours of Tuesday. Eyewitnesses reported heavy gunfire exchanged between two Kuki groups, believed to be rival factions vying for territorial control.
A civilian, caught in the crossfire while returning from his fields, died on the spot. Security forces later recovered three more bodies identified as armed militants from the area.
Police have sealed the site and launched a combing operation. While the situation remains tense, officials confirmed that the area is now under control.
UKNA Claims Responsibility
Shortly after the clash, the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attack. The group alleged that the rival faction was encroaching on UKNA-held territory and had violated a “ceasefire understanding” between ethnic groups.
In their release, UKNA accused the other group of extortion and illegal arms buildup in civilian zones. They justified their action as “a necessary response to growing threats.”
Violence Rekindles Fear
The Manipur unrest UKNA clash has renewed fear among locals who were already reeling from ethnic violence earlier this year. Several villagers have fled to safer zones following the recent conflict.
Local leaders from both Kuki and Meitei communities have urged the government to increase patrolling and prevent such deadly encounters. Civil society groups warned that if left unchecked, such incidents could further escalate ethnic tensions.
Government’s Response
The Manipur state government has condemned the killings and deployed additional paramilitary forces in Tengnoupal and surrounding areas. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh held an emergency review meeting to assess the ground situation.
A senior government official said, “This kind of violence is unacceptable. We will not allow any armed group to threaten peace in Manipur.”
The state has also reached out to central security agencies for enhanced surveillance in the border areas where such groups are active.
Broader Context of the Conflict
Manipur has seen ongoing clashes since May 2023, largely between Kuki and Meitei groups. What started as a tribal rights protest spiraled into months of violence, with over 200 deaths and thousands displaced.
Armed outfits like the UKNA operate in the hill districts and often engage in turf wars, extortion, and gunrunning. Despite peace talks and ground-level coordination, sporadic violence continues to erupt, mostly in border districts like Tengnoupal, Churachandpur, and Kangpokpi.
Residents Demand Protection
Villagers in the affected region have demanded more security camps and round-the-clock patrolling. “We are tired of living in fear. Today it was our neighbour. Tomorrow it could be us,” said a local resident from Saibol Khullen.
Youth groups have also planned a protest rally demanding disarmament of all militant groups and proper compensation for victims.
Civilian Casualties Continue
The death of yet another civilian has reignited the debate about the cost of militarized ethnic rivalries. Human rights groups have urged both state and central governments to step up peace initiatives and bring insurgent leaders to the negotiation table.
Meanwhile, local police have lodged an FIR and are conducting further investigations. No arrests have been made so far, but officials hinted at detentions in the coming days.
Peace Efforts Underway
Despite the bloodshed, peace committees have called for immediate talks between the conflicting groups. Religious leaders and tribal councils have volunteered to mediate if provided government backing.
The Manipur Peace Forum has appealed for a 30-day ceasefire and asked all groups to halt operations for the sake of public safety.
The Manipur unrest UKNA clash that left four people dead, including a civilian, marks yet another grim chapter in the state’s ongoing crisis. While the UKNA justifies its actions, the larger concern remains the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire of militant rivalries.
Unless urgent peace efforts gain momentum, the state risks falling deeper into chaos. Manipur’s residents, weary and anxious, now await real solutions—not more statements.