Imphal, Feb 9: Fresh tension gripped parts of Manipur’s Ukhrul district after armed militants allegedly torched multiple houses in and around Litan Sareikhong on Monday, February 9, prompting authorities to impose strict prohibitory measures to prevent further violence.
Officials said the situation in Litan Sareikhong and the adjoining village of Sikibung had remained volatile since Sunday evening following violent stone-pelting incidents between members of two tribal communities. The clashes led the district administration to impose restrictions as a precautionary measure to curb escalation.
Around midnight, several houses belonging to members of the Tangkhul Naga community were reportedly set on fire at Litan Sareikhong, allegedly by Kuki militants. In retaliatory incidents, a few houses belonging to the Kuki community were also reportedly burnt in nearby areas. Sources indicated that a rural bank and at least nine houses owned by members of the Naga community were destroyed, while three houses belonging to Kuki residents were also affected.
Videos circulating on social media showed armed men setting houses and vehicles ablaze, with visuals reportedly depicting militants in camouflage uniforms carrying sophisticated weapons and firing multiple rounds into the air in the Litan area. Authorities have not officially confirmed the authenticity of the footage but said the visuals are being examined.
In response, additional security forces were deployed along routes leading to Litan to maintain law and order, restrict the movement of suspicious individuals, and prevent further disturbances. An order issued by Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das cited a strong apprehension of breach of peace between the Tangkhul and Kuki communities in Litan village, warning that the situation posed serious risks to life and property.
Invoking Section 163(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the district magistrate imposed a complete ban on the movement of people outside their residences and prohibited activities that could disturb public order. The restrictions came into effect from 7 pm on February 8, 2026, and will remain in force until further orders, though government officials and security personnel have been exempted.
Officials said tensions had been building since Saturday night after a member of the Tangkhul community was allegedly assaulted by a group of seven to eight people at Litan village, triggering the latest round of unrest. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored as efforts continue to restore calm in the area.
