Tensions continue in Manipur's Churachandpur district

Churachandpur district in Manipur remains tense after recent violence between the Hmar and Zomi communities. The clashes on Tuesday resulted in one death and several injuries. Security forces are now enforcing a curfew to prevent further unrest. On Tuesday night, Lalropui Pakhuangte, a 51-year-old from the Hmar community, was shot during the violence. He later died in the hospital. The violence erupted following an attack on Hmar Inpui general secretary Richard Hmar by some members of the Zomi community on Sunday. Schools and offices have low attendance, and many vehicles are off the roads. Security personnel have been conducting patrols to maintain order. Meanwhile, displaced members of the Kuki community are being moved to safer locations from relief camps. Local leaders, including six MLAs, have called for peace. They urged the community to come together and prevent misunderstandings. Several tribal organizations in the area have announced plans to form a peace committee to monitor the situation. This violence is the latest in a series of ethnic conflicts in Manipur that have resulted in over 250 deaths and thousands of displaced individuals since May 2023. The Indian government imposed President's rule in the state last month after the resignation of the chief minister. The state assembly is currently suspended.