Fresh tensions erupt in Manipur after village chief attacked in tribal clash

Fresh tribal tensions surfaced in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Sunday after suspected militants allegedly attacked a Naga village chief over a land dispute, raising fears of renewed ethnic unrest in the already volatile region.

According to officials, the incident occurred around 12:15 PM in Konsakhul village, predominantly inhabited by the Naga community, when a group of armed assailants stormed the area and assaulted several residents, including village chief Aimson Abonmai.

The attackers are believed to be from the Kuki-majority village of Haraothel, which neighbours Konsakhul. The situation quickly escalated, prompting emergency medical and security responses.

Abonmai was rushed to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal, while eight other injured villagers were treated at the Khurkhul Primary Health Centre. All the injured are reported to be in stable condition.

Condemning the incident, the Rongmei Naga Council warned against further escalation. “We urge Kuki leaders to prevent such incidents. This assault could ignite fresh unrest, especially when the state is still grappling with ongoing ethnic tensions between the Kuki and Meitei communities,” said Athuan Gangmei, the council’s vice president.

In response, additional security forces have been deployed to the area to prevent further violence and restore calm.