Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, March 20:
A tense and alarming situation unfolded across parts of Ukhrul district on Thursday, March 19, 2026, after alleged Kuki militants launched a series of coordinated attacks on Tangkhul Naga villages, triggering widespread panic and raising serious concerns over civilian safety and regional stability.
According to a press statement issued by the Media Cell of the Working Committee of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), heavily armed militants opened fire on innocent civilians in Sinakeithei, Thawai, and Litan areas in what has been described as a deliberate attempt to terrorize local inhabitants and encroach upon ancestral lands.
The firing reportedly began as early as 11 a.m. of the same day, in Sinakeithei village, where sporadic gunshots soon escalated into sustained volleys as the day progressed. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the situation worsened significantly by evening, with simultaneous attacks reported in Litan and Thawai, suggesting a well-coordinated offensive targeting multiple locations.
Village volunteers stationed in Sinakeithei and Litan reportedly retaliated, returning fire in defense against advancing militants. However, in Thawai, local volunteers exercised restraint and refrained from retaliating, expressing hope that the armed forces deployed in the area would intervene swiftly to contain the situation and restore order.
The incident has once again brought into sharp focus the fragile security environment in the hill districts, particularly amid ongoing ethnic tensions. The TNL strongly alleged that the militants involved are operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Government of India, accusing them of violating its terms by engaging in acts of violence against civilians.
The statement emphasized that such actions are not isolated, but part of a disturbing pattern, claiming that there exists substantial evidence of repeated violations by these groups. It urged both the State and Central governments to take immediate and decisive action, including reconsideration and possible termination of the SoO agreement, to prevent further escalation.
“The continued inaction and indifference of the authorities will only embolden armed groups and push the region closer to chaos,” the statement warned.
The TNL further cautioned that if the ongoing attacks persist and no effective measures are taken to ensure peace and security, Tangkhul Naga village volunteers may be compelled to take up arms in defense of their land and people.
As tensions remain high, all eyes are now on the security forces and the government’s response to prevent further violence and restore a semblance of normalcy in the affected areas.