Fresh violence has erupted in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur, where at least 25 houses were set on fire in Tiporam village on Wednesday. The destructive incident occurred shortly after a series of targeted attacks on neighboring settlements along the Imphal-Tamenglong (IT) Road, marking a sharp escalation in regional tension.
Destruction in Tiporam Village
According to local accounts, individuals entered Tiporam village on Wednesday and set 25 residences ablaze before the remaining villagers departed from the area. Five of the damaged homes belonged to members of the local Nepali community. Residents of Tiporam had earlier been evacuated to Makui, located approximately 15 km away, to seek safety during previous outbreaks of violence. While several displaced villagers attempted to return to their homes on Tuesday, they encountered immediate gunfire upon their arrival.
Local residents alleged that security personnel were informed about the impending threat and active arson but did not intervene until Wednesday. Official representatives and security forces have not issued statements or verified these claims regarding the operational response timing.
Preceding Firing and Arson Incidents
The attack on Tiporam follows intense clashes earlier in the week across Kangpokpi district. On Monday, an assault on Teikhang Kuki village resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including two women, while four others sustained injuries. Police officials noted that heavy gunfire in the area persisted until around 12:30 PM following the initial assault.
Violence continued into Tuesday as multiple Liangmai Naga villages along the Imphal-Tamenglong (IT) Road came under attack. Police confirmed that at least 10 houses were set on fire during that rampage. Heavy equipment and vehicles were also targeted, with an excavator, a Gypsy, a pickup truck, and a commercial truck found extensively damaged by arsonists.
Impact on Community Leaders
Among those injured during the ongoing violent incidents was 49-year-old N Luithuibou, who suffered bullet wounds to his right abdomen and hand. Community members identified N Luithuibou as a local church pastor who was caught in the regional conflict.
