A major clash reportedly took place between Mao and Maram communities at Maram Bazaar under Maram Police Station in Senapati district on Friday, in which around 10 persons, including a police officer, sustained injuries.
According to police, four youths belonging to the Mao community were physically assaulted allegedly by a group that spoke Maram dialect when they were shopping at Maram Bazaar around 7.30 pm.
The four youths have been identified as K Hripuni, 30, son of Kayisii; B Ashuli, 31, son of Besii; K Pfokrelo, 32, son of Kaikho and S Kholu, 30, son of Sani. All four of them are residents of Makhan Khuman village located near Maram Bazaar.
Using loudspeakers, the Maram side gathered more people and a mob wielding guns, swords, cudgels and stones started attacking Makhan Khuman village, as per police.
Police arrived at the scene and attempted to bring the situation under control, during which one police officer sustained injury after being hit by a stone.
On being unable to bring the situation under control, additional police forces from Mao, Tadubi, and Senapati were called in and the situation was finally brought under control late at night. Police are keeping strict vigil at the area at present.
Around 10 houses in Makhan Khuman village were vandalised while many vehicles were also damaged during the attack, the police said. The 10 injured persons are currently receiving treatment at PHC Maram.
In connection with the incident, FIR No 7(4)2022 MRM-PS under section 147/148/149/307/324,425 IPC & 25(I-C) Arms Act was lodged by police station concerned.
It may be mentioned that there has been a long existing land dispute between Maram and Mao communities.
