The district administration of Tamenglong in Manipur has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC to maintain law and order. The restrictions, which came into effect on Tuesday, aim to prevent further conflict between the residents of Khoupu and Mukti villages.
According to official sources, the boundary dispute has been simmering for weeks, with both villages claiming ownership of a stretch of forested land. The issue intensified after villagers reportedly clashed during an attempt to demarcate the area without official supervision. In light of the unrest, the Tamenglong district magistrate issued an emergency order to prohibit unlawful gatherings, movement of people, and any provocative activities in the affected zone.
What Triggered the Conflict?
The long-standing disagreement between Khoupu and Mukti, both situated in the western part of Tamenglong district, escalated after villagers from one side allegedly entered the disputed territory for cultivation purposes. The opposing group raised objections, leading to heated arguments that nearly turned violent. Eyewitnesses reported that makeshift boundary markers were vandalized, and threats were exchanged.
Fearing a full-scale confrontation, the administration quickly stepped in to impose Section 144, banning the assembly of five or more persons and restricting movement in the disputed area. Security forces have also been deployed to monitor the situation and prevent any untoward incidents.
District Administration’s Response
Tamenglong Deputy Commissioner Christopher Vungkung confirmed the imposition of prohibitory orders and stated that they would remain in place until peace is restored. “We are taking all necessary measures to ensure that the situation doesn’t spiral out of control. A joint meeting with representatives from both villages has been scheduled to mediate the issue,” he said.
The district police are keeping a close watch on the movements in the area, while additional personnel from the Manipur Rifles have been dispatched as a preventive measure. Patrolling has also been intensified in nearby regions to avoid any spillover of the conflict.
Peace Talks on the Table
The district administration has called for a peace dialogue between village heads, local leaders, and community elders. Civil society organizations from Tamenglong and neighboring districts have offered to mediate the dispute. Several appeals have been made urging both sides to refrain from violence and respect the rule of law.
One local leader from Mukti village, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “We do not want violence. Our only demand is a fair and legal resolution to the boundary issue. We are ready to cooperate with the administration.”
Khoupu villagers echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a peaceful settlement that respects historical land ownership and traditional agreements.
Historical Roots of the Dispute
The boundary row between the two villages is not new. According to historical records, the disputed land was previously uninhabited forest territory used by both communities for seasonal farming. Over time, claims and counterclaims emerged regarding ownership, but no official survey had clearly marked the boundaries.
With the region’s sensitive ethnic dynamics, even minor land disputes can easily escalate. Manipur has a complex social fabric comprising various tribal groups, making disputes over land a particularly delicate issue.
Looking Ahead
As tensions remain high, authorities have urged the public to avoid spreading rumors and misinformation through social media. The state government has also directed the Revenue Department to expedite land surveys and prepare official demarcations in the disputed zone.
For now, the situation remains tense but under control. The success of the upcoming dialogue and mediation efforts will determine whether peace can return to Tamenglong’s troubled villages.
The recent imposition of prohibitory orders in Tamenglong highlights the fragile nature of inter-village relationships in Manipur, especially when it comes to land rights and territorial claims. With administrative efforts underway, residents and observers hope that a peaceful and long-lasting resolution will soon be achieved.