Ethnic Standoff in Manipur: Civilians Detained Amid Rising Tensions

Tensions continue to rise in Manipur's Ukhrul district as Tangkhul Naga civilians traveling on the Ukhrul-Imphal route have reportedly been detained by villagers of a different community. Officials confirmed that the civilians were held at Shangkai village, located about 5 km from Litan police station, though the exact number of detainees remains unknown.

The incident has reignited concerns following ethnic clashes in February between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, which resulted in more than 30 houses being burned in Litan Sareikhong. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand expressed profound concern for the detained civilians and urged for their safe, unconditional release.

Amidst the escalating tensions, the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and civil society organizations have called for immediate government intervention. Meanwhile, reports emerged of gunfights between armed groups from the two communities, further complicating efforts to stabilize the region.