Fresh incidents of firing were reported early on February 10 in Litan area of Ukhrul district, even as houses were found burnt down, further heightening fear and tension among residents. Reports said gunfire was continuing at the time of filing this report, despite heavy deployment of security forces in and around the area.
Several newly constructed but abandoned houses were allegedly set ablaze during the night and early morning hours. Preliminary information indicated that at least 21 houses were burnt till February 9 evening, with fresh incidents overnight pushing the figure to around 30 or possibly more, though official confirmation is still awaited.
Residents belonging to both Tangkhul and Kuki communities were seen fleeing their homes and moving to safer locations along with their belongings as the situation remained volatile. Though additional security forces have been deployed, firing incidents continued to be reported, indicating that tensions remain far from under control.
On February 9, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh appealed for peace and restraint. An emergency meeting was convened involving representatives of both communities, legislators and district administration officials. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, MLA Ram Muivah and MLA Kimneo Haokip. However, no concrete resolution reportedly emerged from the deliberations.
A separate team of legislators led by the Deputy Chief Minister also visited Litan to assess the ground situation and held discussions with community leaders. Assurances were given that those involved in arson would be identified and arrested. BJP MLAs Govindas Konthoujam and Kh Ibomcha said additional security measures had been taken and dialogue initiated to prevent further escalation.
The violence reportedly began on Sunday night following an alleged altercation between two intoxicated individuals from the Tangkhul and Kuki communities. The situation escalated after the Tangkhul individual was allegedly assaulted by a group, triggering retaliatory arson and unrest.
So far, no casualties have been officially reported. Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation as violence in the area entered its third consecutive day, raising concerns over further escalation if calm is not restored immediately.