The visuals reportedly show militants wearing camouflage uniforms, carrying sophisticated weapons, and firing multiple rounds into the air in the Litan area
Digital Desk: Tension prevailed in Litan Sareikhong and its surrounding areas in Manipur’s Ukhrul district after armed militants allegedly set fire to several houses late on 8th February. According to the administration, Litan Sareikhong and the nearby village of Sikibung have remained tense since Sunday evening following intense stone-pelting incidents between two tribal groups. To prevent further escalation, prohibitory orders were imposed in the area.
Officials said that around midnight, several houses belonging to members of the Tangkhul Naga community were burned down in Litan Sareikhong, allegedly by Kuki militants. In retaliation, a few houses belonging to the Kuki community were also reportedly set ablaze in nearby locations.
Tangkhuls are the largest Naga tribe in Manipur, while Litan Sareikhong is a Kuki-dominated village. Sources stated that a rural bank and at least nine houses belonging to the Naga community were set on fire, while three houses of the Kuki community were also destroyed in the violence.
Video footage of the arson has surfaced on social media, allegedly showing armed men setting fire to houses and vehicles. The visuals reportedly show militants wearing camouflage uniforms, carrying sophisticated weapons, and firing multiple rounds into the air in the Litan area.
In response, additional security forces have been deployed along routes leading to Litan to maintain law and order, prevent further disturbances, and restrict the movement of suspicious individuals.
An order issued by Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das stated that there was a strong apprehension of a breach of peace and public tranquillity between members of the Tangkhul and Kuki communities in Litan village. The order noted that such disturbances could pose serious risks to human lives and property, and that the prevailing circumstances required immediate action, making prior notice impractical.
Invoking Sub-Section 1 of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the district magistrate imposed a complete prohibition on the movement of individuals outside their residences, as well as on any activity that could disturb law and order in the notified area, from 7 pm on February 8, 2026, until further orders. The restrictions do not apply to government officials and security personnel.
Officials added that tensions had been simmering since Saturday night after a member of the Tangkhul community was allegedly assaulted by seven to eight individuals in Litan village, triggering the latest bout of unrest.
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