Nine killed in fresh Naga-Kuki violence across Manipur districts

Fresh clashes between Naga and Kuki communities claimed nine lives across multiple districts in Manipur on Tuesday and Wednesday, reigniting concerns over the volatile security situation in the state. The violence, which spanned three districts, marked another escalation in the long-running ethnic tensions that have destabilized the region.

Kamjong district witnessed the heaviest toll with four deaths reported, while Kangpokpi district also recorded four fatalities during the same period. The toll was compounded by an ambush in Ukhrul district that claimed one additional life, bringing the 24-hour death count to nine.

The incidents reflect the fragile ceasefire that has held intermittently between the two communities despite multiple rounds of dialogue. Security forces have intensified patrolling in affected areas, though the geographic spread of the violence poses significant challenges to containment efforts.

Communal violence in Manipur has claimed hundreds of lives since May 2023, displacing tens of thousands and leaving deep scars on the state's social fabric. State authorities have urged community leaders to exercise restraint and facilitate de-escalation, while civil society organizations have called for sustained dialogue to address underlying grievances.