At least three individuals including a personnel of 6 MR and two civilians have been killed in Ukhrul violence that broke out on Wednesday morning reportedly between villagers of Hunphun and Hungpung villages.
Around 46 individuals were injured in the clashes.
The clash broke out in Ukhrul town on Wednesday morning after Hunphun Village Authority objected to the ‘One Day Cleanliness Drive’ organised by Thawaijao Hungpung Young Students’ Organisation (THYSO) at District Hospital, Hungsei-Thingrasa in Hungpung.
According to sources, the Hunphun Village Authority objected to the cleanliness drive organised by THYSO of Hungpung, also known as Hundung in its area.
However, tensions escalated when THYSO volunteers attempted to cross the boundary into Hunphun for their social work. This led to a heated argument between residents of both villages that began around 9.30 am. As the situation intensified, gunfire erupted between the two sides.
Later, the villagers began firing openly along the road. In an effort to control the escalating situation, Ukhrul Police and personnel of 6th MR intervened. However, as tensions continued to rise, they were unable to regain control. Consequently, the Ukhrul Police Station requested assistance from the 35 Assam Rifles Town Post to help de-escalate the conflict. Unfortunately, the Assam Rifles personnel did not respond in time.
In the violence, three persons, including the MR personnel ,were killed and around 46 individuals were injured on both sides.
During the violence, a personnel of 6 MR and two civilians were killed. The 6 MR personnel has been identified as Rifleman Worinmi Thumrah of Lunghar village. Another rifleman named Nganaomi were also injured.
The two deceased civilians are Silas Zingkhai, 35 years, Meizailung village, Ukhrul and Reileiwung Hongray. 40 yrs, s/o Makrei Hongray of Awontang, Ukhrul.
Reports further add, around 25 villagers of Hunphun were injured out of which 10 in critical condition were referred to Imphal. On the other hand, around 21 from Hungphung were injured most of whom were taken to Imphal.
The tension is rooted in a long-standing boundary issue between Hunphun village and Hungphung (Hundung) village which had seen such tensions over the years.
Hunphun village lies within the Ukhrul town itself while Hungphung village lies about a kilometre to the east.
Following the incident, curfew has been imposed in Ukhrul town with immediate effect until further notice.
A notice by Dinringam Kamei, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ukhrul, stated that the Superintendent police, Ukhrul, vide letter No. C-1(L&O)/2024- SP(UKL)/7363 dated 2nd October, 2024, has reported an apprehension in connection with social work organized by THYSO today i.e. 02.10.2024 and subsequent objection to such activities in Hunphun area by Hunphun Village Authority.
Moreover, in connection with land disputes between Hunphun and Hungpung villages there is a possibility of creating law and order problem which may lead to breach of peace and public tranquillity between the two villages, the SDM stated.
Stating that such disturbances may result in serious breaches of peace, public tranquillity, and danger to human lives and properties; and that such circumstances necessitate immediate action, and service of notice is not feasible, the SDM issued an order prohibiting the movement of any person outside their respective residences and any other act or activity that could disturb the prevailing law and order in the Scheduled area from 9:30 AM on 2nd October, 2024 until further orders.
However, this decree shall not be applicable to government agencies responsible for maintaining law and order and providing essential services, the SDM stated.
In the event of extraordinary circumstances or for individuals seeking to organize a procession for purposes such as marriage, funeral, or other celebrations within the designated area, written permission must be obtained from the undersigned or the Superintendent of Police, Ukhrul District. No such procession shall commence until authorization is granted by the relevant authorities in writing, the SDM further stated.
Hanyo Luke Rungsung, SDC Ukhrul, and Riamei Jangmei SDC/BO DC Ukhrul have been assigned as Executive Magistrates in Thingrasa and Ngaphar area respectively.
Moreover, the government has ordered temporary suspension/curbing of internet and mobile data services including VSATs, broadband (IILL & FTTH) and VPN services in the territorial jurisdiction of Ukhrul District of Manipur for 1 (one) day with effect from 1:20 P.M. of 02-10-2024 subject to confirmation within the next 24 hours except for those Lease lines and FTTH connections to DC and SP Offices or any case whereby the State Government grants exemption.
The order is being passed ex-parte in view of the emergent situation, Dr. Mayengbam Veto Singh, Joint Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, stated in an order in the name of the governor.
Any person found guilty for violation of aforesaid orders will be liable for legal action, the order stated.
