UKHRUL, MANIPUR : The Ukhrul violence situation in Manipur has worsened after fresh incidents of arson and firing were reported in the Litan Sareikhong area. Thick plumes of black smoke rising from the locality on Tuesday indicated that more residential structures were set ablaze, deepening fears among residents and security agencies.
Authorities responded by extending curfew restrictions and enforcing a five-day internet shutdown across the district. The suspension includes mobile data, broadband services, VPNs, and VSAT connections. Officials said the move aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and avoid further mobilisation of violent groups.
Ukhrul district, located in northeastern Manipur, has remained on edge since the weekend following a clash between members of two communities. The violence has disrupted normal life, forced families to flee, and increased the deployment of security forces.
Fresh Arson and Firing Incidents Deepen Tensions
The latest violence erupted in Litan Sareikhong, where multiple homes were reportedly torched overnight. Visuals circulating online showed flames and heavy smoke engulfing parts of the village, pointing to deliberate arson rather than accidental fires.
The unrest intensified after an alleged assault on a local resident on Saturday evening. What began as a local altercation soon escalated into wider clashes, triggering retaliatory actions. By Tuesday, firing incidents were also reported, adding to the law and order challenge.
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Security agencies have increased patrols and set up additional checkpoints. Meanwhile, authorities urged residents to remain indoors and strictly follow curfew guidelines. Despite these measures, tension continues to simmer in pockets of the district.
Internet Shutdown and Curfew Imposed Across Ukhrul
In response to the deteriorating situation, the Manipur government ordered a complete internet ban for five days in Ukhrul. The suspension covers all digital communication services, including social media platforms and messaging apps.
Officials believe unrestricted internet access could fuel rumours, provoke panic, and encourage further violence. Similar measures were taken in previous unrest-hit areas of the state to stabilise volatile situations.
Alongside the internet ban, curfew orders remain in force in sensitive areas. Security forces continue area domination exercises, while district authorities monitor developments on an hourly basis.
Peace Efforts Amid Continuing Violence
The fresh violence occurred shortly after a high-level meeting involving state leaders and civil society representatives from both communities. The discussions focused on restoring calm and preventing further clashes.
Despite these peace efforts, the ground situation deteriorated rapidly. Reports of armed individuals firing in public spaces further alarmed residents and complicated security operations. Authorities are currently assessing damage to property and identifying those displaced by the violence.
Relief arrangements are being planned for affected families. However, access remains restricted due to curfew and safety concerns. Officials said restoring peace remains the top priority before any relaxation of restrictions.
Broader Impact on Manipur’s Security Situation
The renewed Ukhrul violence adds to Manipur’s ongoing ethnic tensions, which have strained administrative and security resources for months. Each new flashpoint increases the humanitarian burden and slows recovery efforts across the state.
Analysts note that repeated internet shutdowns, while effective for immediate control, highlight the fragile security environment. Long-term stability, they say, depends on sustained dialogue, accountability, and community-level reconciliation.
For now, authorities remain on high alert. Further decisions on curfew relaxation or internet restoration will depend entirely on ground assessments over the coming days.