Violence Escalates in Manipur: Three Kuki Civilians Killed in Suspected Militant Attack

In a tragic escalation of violence in Manipur, three civilians from the Kuki community were reportedly killed in an attack attributed to an armed group believed to be affiliated with the Naga community. The incident occurred in a Kuki village situated along the Imphal-Tamenglong road in Kangpokpi district, as confirmed by a senior police official.

The deceased have been identified as Tingneichin Lhouvum, aged 40, Lamtinthang Lhoujem, 36, and Hoineineng Lhoujem, 21. In addition to the fatalities, four others sustained injuries during the assault, heightening fears of continuing violence in the region.

This latest incident marks the second attack on the Imphal-Tamenglong road within just one week. On the previous Thursday, unidentified assailants had ambushed a group, resulting in the deaths of four Naga civilians. This cycle of violence has reignited tensions that have been simmering in Manipur since earlier this year, particularly following an incident in February involving clashes between members of the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki-Zo communities in Ukhrul district.

The ongoing conflict in Manipur erupted into widespread clashes in May 2023, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities. Since the outbreak of violence, the toll has been devastating, with over 260 lives lost and more than 59,000 individuals displaced. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as the specter of violence looms over the region.

To date, the toll from the Kuki-Naga conflict has reached at least 34 lives since the unrest began in February. The Imphal-Tamenglong road, a vital lifeline for communities in the area, sees both Kuki and Naga residents residing in close quarters, which has historically fueled tensions.

In the light of increasing violence, political leaders are feeling the pressure to address the escalating crisis. Recently, nine Naga MLAs, including Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, have reached out to the Union Government, calling for urgent intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.

Source: scroll.in