Three civilians killed, houses torched in fresh violence in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Three civilians were killed and several homes were damaged in a fresh outbreak of violence in Manipur's Kangpokpi district early on Friday, reigniting concerns over security in the conflict-hit state. According to local reports, the incident took place at around 4:10 am. An exchange of gunfire was reported in the area, though authorities have not yet officially confirmed the circumstances of the clash or the groups involved.

The three victims have been identified as Letkhongam Haokip, son of Manglun Haokip; his wife Tinmary Haokip; and Jangminlal Haokip, son of Seikhohao Haokip. Community organisations said the victims were residents of the affected village. The incident happened at Loibol Khullen village in the New Keithelmanbi area of Kangpokpi district.

Residents also reported that multiple houses belonging to members of the Kuki community were set on fire during the violence. Initial local accounts suggested that at least three houses were burned. However, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), a prominent Kuki civil society organisation, claimed in a statement that seven houses were destroyed and extensive damage was caused to civilian property.

In its statement, KIM alleged that armed cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) and a faction of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-K) were responsible for the attack. The organisation described the incident as a targeted assault on civilians and strongly condemned the killings.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from either of the groups named by KIM.

KIM EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES

Calling the incident a serious violation of human rights, KIM demanded accountability and urged the authorities to take swift action against those responsible. The organisation also extended condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with residents who lost their homes and property in the attack.

KIM further appealed to the Government of India and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, identify those involved and strengthen protection for vulnerable villages in the region.

Security forces are understood to have stepped up monitoring in the area following the violence. Officials are yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident, and investigations are ongoing. More details are expected as authorities assess the situation on the ground.