Violence Erupts in Manipur: Two Naga Lives Lost in Militant Attack

In a tragic incident on Friday morning, two individuals from the Naga community were killed in an armed attack by suspected militants in Kangpokpi district, Manipur. Reports from local news outlet Ukhrul Times indicate that the attack occurred around 8 AM when a group of assailants, armed with sophisticated firearms, targeted Langka Naga village.

According to an unnamed police officer who spoke to the Press Trust of India (PTI), one victim, identified as W Chawang, succumbed to severe gunshot wounds to the head at the scene. Another victim, named Kawidinang Abonmai, also lost his life due to the attack. Additionally, three other residents sustained injuries in this violent episode.

Eyewitness accounts reported that members from the Naga village retaliated by firing back at the assailants in the aftermath of the attack. This incident has heightened tensions in the region, which has been fraught with conflict between the Naga and Kuki communities. The Liangmai Naga Council-Manipur condemned the violent act, attributing the assault to militants associated with the Kuki National Front (P). In response, they announced a complete shutdown of Liangmai Naga-inhabited areas in Manipur until further notice.

As part of the shutdown, all shops, offices, and non-essential services are expected to remain closed, though emergency services such as medical and fire assistance will continue to operate. The Liangmai Naga Council urged residents to maintain calm and called on authorities to ensure public safety and pursue justice against those responsible for the violence.

This incident is part of a broader context of rising tensions in the region, which have been exacerbated since February 7, when clashes emerged between members of the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki-Zo communities over an alleged assault. Prior to this, the area had experienced a relatively stable period, making this resurgence of violence particularly alarming for local residents.

Source: scroll.in