A firing incident occurred in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district on Monday, prompting an operation by the Assam Rifles. Subsequently, 13 bodies were discovered in Leithu village. According to officials, the incident unfolded around noon, and no weapons were found near the bodies. The deceased individuals in the Leithu area did not appear to be local residents, indicating they may have come from elsewhere and engaged in a firefight with another group.
The Kuki-Zo tribal groups in Tengnoupal district had recently welcomed a ‘Peace Agreement’ between the Indian government and the Meitei militant faction UNLF (Pambei) on December 3. Meanwhile, the Manipur government restored mobile internet services across the state, with some exceptions, till December 18, citing improved law and order.
However, mobile towers in specific areas, including those between districts such as Chandel and Kakching, Churachandpur and Bishnupur, and Tengnoupal and Kakching, will still face suspended operations. Mobile internet had been suspended in the state since May 3 following outbreaks of violence.
Manipur has experienced ongoing violence since ethnic clashes erupted in May, resulting in over 180 fatalities. The clashes revolve around grievances related to Meiteis’ Scheduled Tribe status and attempts to relocate tribals from protected forest areas. Meiteis constitute 53 percent of Manipur’s population and primarily inhabit the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, make up 40 percent and reside mainly in the hill districts.
