Republic Day Violence Triggers Tension in Sadar Hills
Authorities imposed a total shutdown in parts of Kangpokpi district following an arson attack on K. Songlung (II) village in Manipur’s Sadar Hills area on Republic Day, January 26.
Community organisations alleged that cadres of the proscribed Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) carried out the attack. The incident occurred even as the state marked the 77th Republic Day, intensifying fear and insecurity among residents.
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Kuki-Zo Community Alleges Targeted Attacks
The arson attack triggered panic among villagers belonging to the Kuki-Zo community. According to local groups, the attackers set fire to homes and properties, forcing residents to flee for safety.
As a result, families faced displacement and uncertainty, including women, children, and elderly residents.
Committee on Tribal Unity Condemns Incident
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CTU) strongly condemned the attack and accused authorities of serious security lapses. In a statement, the committee said the incident exposed weaknesses in protecting vulnerable villages.
Moreover, the CTU claimed that several Kuki-Zo villages along the fringes of Kangpokpi district have faced repeated threats in recent months. These villages include Lhangjol, Loibol Kholen, Kharam Vaiphei, and K. Songlung (II).
Allegations of Intimidation by Armed Groups
According to the CTU, armed groups have targeted villages under the pretext of monitoring poppy cultivation. However, the committee said these actions have created fear, insecurity, and forced displacement among villagers.
Consequently, residents now live under constant threat, with limited confidence in security arrangements.
24-Hour Ultimatum Issued to Authorities
Demanding immediate action, the CTU issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the state government to arrest those responsible for the arson attack.
The organisation warned that failure to act would lead to a total shutdown of National Highway-2 (Asian Highway-2) and National Highway-37. The proposed shutdown would remain in effect from midnight of January 27 to midnight of January 28.
Additionally, the CTU stated that it would not take responsibility for any consequences arising from the shutdown if authorities failed to meet its demands.
Kuki-Zo Village Volunteers Denounce ‘Inhuman Act’
Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo Village Volunteers (KZVV), Sadar Hills, also condemned the attack. In a press release, the group described the incident as barbaric, inhuman, and criminal.
The organisation said the attack highlighted a grave failure of security and governance. Furthermore, it stressed that such violence on Republic Day undermined the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
Allegations Against ZUF Kamson Faction
According to the KZVV, armed cadres belonging to the non-SoO ZUF (Kamson) faction carried out the attack in broad daylight. The group alleged that these cadres operate in the Kangchup Kuki area.
The attackers reportedly torched houses and properties belonging to innocent Kuki-Zo villagers. As a result, the assault caused widespread destruction and suffering among civilians.
Human Rights Concerns Raised
The KZVV strongly criticised the burning of civilian homes and called it a serious violation of human rights.
“The deliberate burning of homes of peaceful Kuki-Zo villagers is a heinous crime,” the statement said. “Such acts endanger lives and livelihoods and pose a severe threat to communal harmony and the rule of law.”
Situation Remains Tense
Meanwhile, tension continues to prevail in parts of Kangpokpi district. Authorities remain on alert as community groups press for swift action and accountability.
Security agencies have yet to release an official statement on the incident or confirm arrests. Residents continue to demand stronger protection and justice for the affected families.
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