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Manipur’s Ukhrul tense after night of arson between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities
Fresh violence erupted in Ukhrul district, Manipur, with arson attacks on houses of Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities in Litan area, triggered by an assault, leading to curfew imposition.
Why It Matters
Escalates ethnic tensions in Manipur amid ongoing Naga-Kuki clashes, risking broader instability in a region with history of ethnic violence since May 2023.
Timeline
7 Events
Security response at Litan
February 9, 2026
Security personnel fire tear gas shells to disperse clashing groups at Litan village amid stone pelting.
Curfew imposed in Ukhrul
From 7 PM Sunday, February 8, 2026 until further notice
Ukhrul district magistrate imposes prohibitory orders citing breach of peace fears between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities; security personnel exempt.
Retaliatory arson on Kuki houses
night, February 8, 2026
A few houses belonging to Kuki community set ablaze in retaliation in a nearby area.
Arson on Tangkhul Naga houses in Kuki village
midnight, Sunday night, February 8, 2026
Multiple houses (over 20 reported) belonging to Tangkhul Naga community torched at Litan Sareikhong, a Kuki village.
Stone pelting clashes between communities
evening, February 8, 2026
Intense stone pelting erupted between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities at Litan village.
Initial resolution attempt
February 8, 2026
Dispute initially resolved through customary mechanisms; victim's side and Litan Sareikhong chief agree to settle amicably, with a meeting scheduled.
Assault on Tangkhul Naga member triggers tensions
night, February 7, 2026
A member of the Tangkhul Naga community was allegedly assaulted by seven to eight persons at Litan village.