Nine dead as communal tensions flare across three Manipur districts

Nine people have been killed in separate incidents as communal tensions escalated across three districts in Manipur, authorities confirmed. The deaths occurred amid renewed clashes between communities in the northeastern state, marking a significant escalation in ongoing ethnic tensions.

Unidentified assailants set fire to residential properties as the situation deteriorated, destroying homes belonging to members of the Kuki and Naga communities. According to reports, at least 14 houses were completely burnt down in the arson attacks, leaving families displaced and heightening fears of further violence.

The violence has spread across multiple administrative districts, indicating a wider geographic scope to the communal unrest. Emergency response teams have been mobilized to contain the situation and assist affected residents, though security officials have not yet provided comprehensive details on the circumstances surrounding each of the nine deaths.

The incidents represent the latest chapter in Manipur's ongoing communal divisions, which have periodically erupted into violence. State authorities have appealed for calm as security forces work to restore order and prevent additional casualties in the affected areas.