Fear Persists in Manipur Villages as Residents Allege Night Intimidation; Fresh Arson Reported in Kangpokpi

In Koutruk Ching Leikai, the last village on the outskirts of Imphal West, residents have accused members of the Kuki community of making animal-like sounds at night to provoke panic. Villagers claim the noises are intended to lure residents into reacting, potentially exposing them to attacks. Security officials said they are aware of the complaints, though the allegations remain under verification.

The tension coincided with fresh violence in Kangpokpi district, where militants torched several houses and farm structures in K Songlung village on Monday. The Zeliangrong United Front claimed responsibility, alleging that illegal opium cultivation was being carried out on the targeted properties. Police said damage assessment was underway and additional forces had been deployed to prevent escalation.

Following the incident, the Committee on Tribal Unity, a Kuki civil society organisation, warned of a blockade of the Imphal–Dimapur National Highway if arrests are not made. The group said the blockade would be enforced from the night of January 27 to January 28, raising concerns over potential disruptions to essential supplies.

Residents say the psychological impact of the violence that began on May 3, 2023, continues to shape daily life. Ningthoujam Jina, 17, who was injured during firing in September 2023, said the absence of gunfire does not equate to peace. “A bullet grazed my leg. I could not sit for my exams. Even now, we live with fear,” she said. Her elder sister Naobi echoed the sentiment, stating that normalcy has not returned despite reduced overt violence.

Manipur witnessed sustained ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups from mid-2023 until early 2025, marked by killings, arson and mass displacement. Thousands remain in relief camps. Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned in February 2025 amid political pressure, after which President’s Rule was imposed and later extended until February 2026.

The conflict has its roots in competing demands over Scheduled Tribe status, land rights and political representation. Meitei groups have sought ST status, citing historical claims, while Kuki and Naga communities oppose the move, arguing it would dilute existing constitutional protections for tribal groups.

Officials say restoring trust remains a major challenge. With sporadic violence, mutual accusations and the threat of fresh blockades, authorities face growing pressure to ensure accountability, strengthen security and initiate meaningful reconciliation to prevent a return to large-scale unrest.