Violence flared up again in Manipur on Sunday after suspected militants attacked villages in Tamenglong and Noni districts, leaving four civilians dead, including two women. The tragic incidents, which took place in the villages of Tolen and Longpi, have sent shockwaves across the region. Strongly condemning the deadly assault, the Kuki-Zo Council warned that the unhindered operations of armed groups are severely endangering human lives and threaten to push the state back into an all-out armed conflict.
Rising Casualty Toll in 2026
According to figures released by the Kuki-Zo Council, more than 22 individuals belonging to the Kuki-Zo community, including women and children, have lost their lives to Naga armed factions since the beginning of 2026. Expressing concern over the escalation, the council criticized both political leaders and civil society figures for being noticeably hesitant to initiate meaningful reconciliation and dialogue to halt Naga-Kuki-Zo bloodshed. The organization called upon the Central Government to intervene decisively and ensure that armed groups are not permitted to operate with impunity in the state.
Lawmakers Demand Immediate Justice
Prominent Kuki legislators have voiced strong indignation over the Sunday killings. Expressing his concern for public safety, Saitu constituency MLA Haokholet Kipgen remarked, "Every citizen has the right to live with dignity and free from terror." Meanwhile, MLA Letzamang Haokip urged law enforcement agencies to swiftly trace and apprehend the perpetrators behind the violence to prevent further casualties. Denouncing the raid on vulnerable villagers, MLA Kimneo Hangshing described the fatal attack as a cowardly act.
Longstanding Ethnic Strife Since May 2023
Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May 2023, driven by deep-seated tension between the valley-majority Meitei community and the hill-dwelling Kuki groups. The ongoing confrontation has claimed at least 306 lives so far, with 49 individuals officially listed as missing. Furthermore, thousands of families remain displaced, living in relief shelters away from their homes. The recent fatalities in Tolen and Longpi underscore the urgent need for stringent security measures and genuine political will to restore stability in the troubled state.
