Amid growing concerns over public safety and communal tension, the Manipur government has imposed a curfew in parts of Churachandpur district, following reports of fresh unrest and sporadic violence in the region. The curfew, which came into effect on Wednesday evening, aims to contain the flare-up of hostilities and restore normalcy in the conflict-sensitive district.
The decision, announced by district authorities, restricts the movement of individuals and gatherings in key areas of Churachandpur. Officials have urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions.
Background: A Region on Edge
Churachandpur, located in southern Manipur, has been one of the most volatile regions in the state over the past year. Ethnic tensions, land-related disputes, and political unrest have periodically disrupted peace in the district, which is home to various tribal communities including the Kuki and Zomi groups.
The latest unrest reportedly began after protests broke out over alleged instances of targeted violence and administrative inaction. Though specific details remain unclear, sources suggest that simmering distrust between communities and dissatisfaction with state response to previous incidents have reignited anger among sections of the population.
According to official reports, there were incidents of arson, vandalism, and clashes between groups, prompting the administration to swiftly impose movement restrictions and deploy additional security personnel to vulnerable areas.
Curfew Details and Enforcement
The curfew is currently in force in Churachandpur town and surrounding sensitive zones, including Tuibong, Lamka, and parts of Singngat subdivision. Essential services like medical emergencies, government duty, and electricity maintenance are exempted, but strict restrictions are in place for public gatherings, non-essential travel, and group assemblies.
Manipur Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in the district to ensure law and order. Mobile internet services in the region have also been temporarily suspended to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumors that could inflame the situation further.
District Magistrate Haulianlal Guite stated, “The curfew has been imposed as a preventive measure to control the situation and ensure the safety of all residents. We urge all communities to maintain peace and support efforts to restore normalcy.”
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
The reimposition of curfew has once again brought Manipur’s fragile inter-community relations under the spotlight. Political leaders across party lines have appealed for calm and restraint. While some have blamed the state government for failing to anticipate the tensions, others have emphasized the need for dialogue and reconciliation.
Civil society groups and tribal leaders have also called for peace and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands. However, many in the region continue to express frustration over what they perceive as delayed justice and systemic neglect, especially in handling past instances of violence and displacement.
Several residents, speaking anonymously, voiced concern about the deepening divides between communities and the long-term psychological impact of recurring violence on youth and families.
Humanitarian Concerns and Call for Dialogue
With schools, shops, and public offices shut, daily life has come to a halt in the affected areas. Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the disruption of education, healthcare access, and livelihoods, especially for those living in relief camps or displaced by previous clashes.
Experts on northeast affairs have emphasized the importance of sustained peacebuilding and inclusive governance in Manipur. “What’s urgently needed is a platform for inter-community dialogue, justice for victims of past violence, and confidence-building measures at the grassroots,” said Dr. R.K. Jhalajit, a regional conflict resolution expert.
What Lies Ahead
As authorities work to de-escalate the situation, residents of Churachandpur remain hopeful for a return to peace—but wary of recurring cycles of unrest. The imposition of curfew, while a necessary law-and-order measure, underscores the urgent need for long-term conflict resolution strategies in the state.
Until then, the people of Churachandpur brace for yet another anxious chapter in their long struggle for stability and harmony.