Imphal, India – Heightened tensions have erupted in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district following a violent clash between two tribal groups, resulting in injuries and raising serious concerns about the regional stability and law enforcement’s response. The conflict, predominantly involving the Naga and Kuki communities, escalated on April 5, when at least 13 individuals, including prominent Naga village leaders, were assaulted amidst a land dispute.
Local Naga organizations, including the United Naga Council (UNC), All Naga Students Association (ANSAM), and Naga Women Union (NWU), have expressed outrage over the attacks, particularly criticizing the actions of the Kuki group. According to these Naga associations, the violence was not only unprovoked but also strategically executed during a time of public curfew, hinting at possible lapses in security enforcement.
The incident reportedly took place near the Leimakhong Army Cantonment in the vicinity of Konsakhul village, predominantly inhabited by the Liangmai Naga people. The assault led to severe injuries and significant property damage. Prominent victims include Aimson Abonmai, the chief of Konsakhul, and Adam Dirinamai, the village chairman, both of whom are currently receiving medical treatment in Imphal.
The assault has been described by Naga leaders as a gross violation of their customary laws, which hold the protection and respect of village chiefs in high regard, thus making the attack a deeply offensive act. The Naga bodies have categorized the incident as a severe crime against their community, questioning the effectiveness of both state and central security forces—who were supposed to enforce the curfew and ensure peace.
In their joint statement, the UNC, ANSAM, and NWU condemned what they perceive as a deliberate and organized crime, implicating the larger Kuki community in the violence. They criticized the reactions and statements from the World Kuki Zo Intellectual Council, which they claim justify the assault based on unsubstantiated and distorted documents, thereby exacerbating the tension.
Moreover, just two days before this tragic incident, on April 3, another alarming act of violence was reported. Kuki volunteers allegedly attacked and set fire to properties in Kazanga village, home to the Maram Naga tribe. This act of arson has been labeled by the Naga community as an attempt to forcibly seize land under the guise of an ongoing territorial dispute.
The series of violent acts has not only led to physical injuries and property loss but has also ignited fears of a larger ethnic conflict in the region. The Naga community’s leaders have made it clear that they will not remain passive in the face of such aggression and are calling for immediate and peaceful resolution to these conflicts, urging both community leaders and government authorities to intervene decisively.
Human rights observers and local activists are concerned about the potential for these incidents to escalate into broader ethnic violence, undermining the fragile peace and development of Manipur. They emphasize the need for a mediated solution that respects the rights and territories of all indigenous groups involved.
As Manipur grapples with this challenge, the eyes of the nation—and indeed, of various international human rights groups—are keenly watching how local and national authorities handle the unfolding crisis. The resolution of this dispute will not only affect the immediate safety of the Naga and Kuki communities but also set a precedent for how India manages ethnic tensions and land disputes in the future.