In the aftermath of an attack on a prominent Hmar tribe leader, authorities have imposed a curfew in Manipur's Churachandpur district, predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community.
The incident has ignited significant unrest and protests among members of the Hmar tribe, according to police reports.
The unrest began after a near-collision between the vehicle of Hmar Inpui General Secretary Richard Hmar and a two-wheeler, which escalated into a roadside altercation, sources revealed.
The situation worsened when a group assaulted Richard Hmar, leader of the Hmar tribe's primary decision-making body.
A statement from Hmar Inpui reported that Hmar was ambushed by several individuals while returning home, blindfolded, and severely beaten despite revealing his identity.
The assault occurred at the VK Montessori School in Zenhang Lamka. Hmar is currently receiving medical treatment for excessive bleeding and injuries.
Hmar Inpui demanded that those responsible for the assault present themselves at their office by 10 a.m. on Monday.
With no response by the deadline, protests erupted in Churachandpur, with hundreds of Hmar tribe members taking to the streets, chanting slogans and throwing stones, as reported by local sources.
In anticipation of further escalation, local authorities enforced a curfew under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, while security forces were deployed to stabilize the situation.
Clashes, including stone-pelting, were witnessed between a combined Hmar and Kuki crowd against the Zomi tribes, according to sources in Churachandpur.
In footage from the area, a protester is seen removing and discarding a flag associated with the Zomi tribes from a mobile tower, met with cheers from onlookers below.
Concern from Thadou Students' Association
The Thadou Students' Association General Headquarters (TSA-GHQ) expressed deep concern over the mounting tensions among non-Naga tribes, specifically involving the Kuki/Kuki-Zo, Hmar, and Zomi groups in Churachandpur.
"We urge all involved parties to prioritize dialogue over conflict," the TSA-GHQ pleaded, encouraging government and civil society groups to foster peace underpinned by justice, fairness, and mutual respect. Thadou leaders assert their status as a distinct tribe, separate from the Kuki identity.
Appeal from Churachandpur district commissioner
District Commissioner Dharun Kumar S called for a peaceful resolution, urging community leaders to engage in constructive dialogue.
"Our district's strength lies in its diversity and unity. Violence won't bring a solution," Kumar cautioned, emphasizing the importance of calm and restraint during this critical juncture. He also warned against spreading unverified information that might exacerbate the unrest.