Tension rises as Kukis & Liangmai Nagas clash in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Imphal: Tension flared up between two tribal communities in ethnic strife-torn Manipur on Saturday after a village chief, chairman, and secretary were allegedly kidnapped by suspected militants, officials said.

The fight escalated between the Kukis and Liangmai Nagas after suspected Kuki militants reportedly attacked Konsaram Naga village in Kangpokpi district on Saturday and kidnapped the village chief, chairman, and secretary. The incident occurred at around 12:15pm when villagers engaged in agricultural and construction activities.

The Konsakhul village authority condemned the attack, describing it as "premeditated" and accusing the militants of "masquerading as civilians and so-called volunteers". They also alleged that ASI Kamgin Veiphei facilitated the attack and demanded his immediate suspension and investigation.

Further criticism was levelled against Kangpokpi district magistrate Mahesh Chaudhary for allegedly imposing an arbitrary curfew in Konsakhul, which the authority claimed enabled the attack.

The village authority called for the safe return of the kidnapped leaders, justice for the perpetrators, and a high-level inquiry into the alleged collusion between administrative officials and militant groups.

"A high-level inquiry into the collusion between administrative officials and militant elements, and a guarantee that such atrocities shall not be repeated," the statement issued this evening said.