IMPHAL, April 22: Tensions escalated at T Khullen along National Highway-2 on Tuesday after a shutdown called by the United Naga Council was disrupted, drawing sharp condemnation from the Tangkhul Naga Long.
In a statement, the organisation said the incident occurred during a three-day shutdown observed by volunteers of the Senapati District Students’ Association, called in protest against the killing of two civilians earlier this month in Ukhrul district.
The committee alleged that a police team from Kangpokpi district attempted to detain a volunteer at a checkpoint in the early hours, triggering tension in the area. It further claimed that individuals from a nearby village later dismantled barricades along the highway, leading to a confrontation.
Clashes followed, with reports of stone pelting that left several people injured and damaged at least two vehicles. The statement also alleged that armed individuals opened fire during the incident, while security forces resorted to tear gas and blank rounds to disperse the crowd.
Raising concerns over the handling of the situation, the organisation questioned the conduct of state and central forces, alleging bias that could undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region.
Calling for accountability, the Tangkhul Naga Long urged the state government to identify those responsible for initiating the violence and initiate legal action.
No official response from police or security agencies was available at the time of filing this report.
