Imphal: The Manipur government has condemned the killing of at least nine civilians amid a surge in armed clashes, arson and mob violence in the hill districts of Kamjong, Kangpokpi and Ukhrul over the past 48 hours.
The violence escalated on Saturday while Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh was in New Delhi for a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a statement posted on social media, Singh condemned the violence and said he had directed the authorities concerned to take immediate steps to restore order and protect residents.
He also appealed to public leaders, civil society organisations and all sections of society to exercise restraint, engage in dialogue and help ease tensions.
Referring to his meeting with Modi, Singh said it was a privilege to meet the Prime Minister. He credited Modi’s leadership with supporting the state government’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen also condemned the killings in a statement on October 10 and called for thorough and impartial investigations. She offered condolences to the bereaved families and urged all sides to avoid retaliatory action.
According to ground reports, the deaths followed clashes between armed groups, including confrontations involving Kuki militants and Naga village guards.
The violence escalated after an ambush on an Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) patrol team near Chassad Kuki village.
This was followed by the mobilisation of mobs, arson and the burning of a local police station.