Tensions Escalate in Chassad; At Least One Dead, Two Injured

CONFLICT

Source: Waari Singbul Network

10/10/20262 min read

KAMJONG, October 10: Tensions have escalated sharply in Chassad village of Manipur’s Kamjong district following a violent confrontation involving members of the Tangkhul and Kuki communities. At least one woman has died from bullet injuries, while two others have reportedly been injured amid subsequent clashes. The casualty could be more.

Image: Torched Houses

Image: Visible bullet hole in injured woman who reportedly succumbed to death

The violence reportedly erupted last evening following an attempted ambush on Indian Reserve Police (IRP) personnel deployed on Road Opening Party (ROP) duty, leading to an encounter with suspected Kuki armed militants.

During the ensuing firing, a woman was hit by a stray bullet in the chest and succumbed to the injury later in the night.

The incident appears to have triggered a fresh outbreak of violence, with long-suppressed tensions between members of the Tangkhul and Kuki communities reportedly spilling over into retaliatory attacks.

Houses were allegedly targeted and set ablaze, while gunfire was reported between the two sides.

At least 23 houses were reportedly burnt down in the arson and clashes that continued into the early hours of Saturday.

The Chassad Police Station, situated in close proximity to residential areas of both communities, narrowly escaped being engulfed by the fire as houses near its entrance were targeted and set ablaze. The blaze came so close to the police station gate that, from a distance, the station itself appeared to be on fire.

Although the situation is reportedly under control, tension remains high in the village, with the possibility of further escalation a continuing concern.

Further details regarding the casualties, the extent of property damage and the security situation are awaited.

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