A gunfight between suspected cadres of the NSCN-IM and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) disrupted normal life in Manipur’s Khoupum area on Sunday evening, sending residents into panic and forcing travellers to halt their journey.
The exchange of fire took place at Gaidimjang Part-II (Samlengtiang) under Khoupum Police Station at around 6:10 pm and lasted for nearly 30 minutes. No casualties or injuries were reported.
The firing created fear among local residents. Farmers returning from their fields, as well as motorists and passengers travelling through the area, were stranded until the shooting stopped.
Security forces could not immediately reach the spot due to darkness and the difficult hilly terrain, delaying reinforcement and search operations.
Following the incident, local organisations appealed to both armed groups to end violence and resolve their differences through dialogue.
The Rongmei Luh Phuam (RLP), a women’s organisation based in Khoupum, alleged that the clash began after NSCN-IM cadres entered an area under ZUF influence near Irang Bridge. The organisation urged both groups to avoid armed confrontations in villages and farming areas.
The Zeliangrong Welfare Association, Delhi (ZWAD) also expressed concern over the recurring clashes and appealed to civil society organisations across Zeliangrong areas to remain neutral. It said taking sides or issuing one-sided statements could deepen divisions and undermine efforts to restore peace in the region.