Imphal: Tension flared in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on August 24, after suspected Kuki militants fired six to seven rounds towards the Tangkhul Naga village of Sinakeithei from Leplen Nepali Basti around midnight. No casualties were reported.
According to reports, the firing occurred at around 12:10 am. The village secretary said the gunshots came from the direction of the local cemetery in Leplen, located about 270 metres from the residential area.
The security arrangements in the area have recently changed. The Maha Regiment, which was previously deployed to secure the area, has withdrawn, leaving security responsibilities to the Manipur Rifles.
Local representatives expressed concern over the continued tension in the area. Security deployments include personnel from the Government of Manipur, the 131 Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF), the Manipur Rifles and civil police.
Residents said armed incidents have continued despite the presence of security personnel.
Sinakeithei is a Tangkhul Naga settlement surrounded by neighbouring Kuki localities, with the area remaining vulnerable to tensions between the two communities.
Villagers have approached state and central authorities seeking an immediate and transparent inquiry into the firing and its source.
They have also called for stronger security arrangements following the withdrawal of the Maha Regiment and increased patrolling along vulnerable areas to prevent further escalation and protect agricultural activities.