Tensions flare in Manipur as Naga, Kuki groups clash during shutdown

Clashes erupted between Naga and Kuki groups in Senapati and Kangpokpi during a shutdown by United Naga Council, with stone pelting and firing reported, following tensions over killings in Ukhrul

Imphal: Protesters from two tribal communities clashed on the borders of Senapati and its adjacent Kangpokpi districts of Manipur on Tuesday over a shutdown called by a civil society organisation, leading to tension in the area, officials said.

Local police attempting to clear a roadblock set up by Naga volunteers to enforce a three-day shutdown by the United Naga Council to protest the April 18 killing of two persons in Ukhrul district sparked the clash, they said. An official said the situation turned tense after Changoubung Kuki villagers became involved, leading to stone pelting between the two sides.

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“A few rounds were fired during the commotion. However, it is not clear who did it,” the official said.
The three-day shutdown called by UNC paralysed normal life in all Naga-inhabited areas of the state, including Ukhrul, Kamjong, Senapati, Noney and Tamenglong. The shutdown began at midnight on April 20.