Tensions escalated in Churachandpur district of Manipur late on September 14, as unidentified assailants targeted the residences of multiple Kuki-Zo leaders. Among the properties set ablaze was the home of Calvin, the External Secretary of the Kuki National Organisation (KNO). This incident occurred just hours after widespread protests had erupted over the arrest of two individuals accused of vandalism and damaging government property on September 12, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit to the region.
Further reports indicated that another residence belonging to a Kuki-Zo leader associated with the Suspension of Operations (SoO) was also torched amidst the night’s violence. Additionally, the home of Ginza Vualzong, who serves as the spokesperson for both the Kuki-Zo Coordination Committee (KZC) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), came under threat from miscreants. However, prompt action by local community leaders and youth members successfully thwarted attempts to set his residence on fire. Shortly thereafter, military personnel arrived to secure the area and ensure the safety of the property.
In response to these events, authorities have heightened security measures in Churachandpur, with forces closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation of violence. The authorities are committed to maintaining order amidst intensive local unrest.
