Tension escalated along the Senapati–Kangpokpi border in Manipur on Tuesday, April 21, as clashes erupted between members of two tribal communities during a 72-hour shutdown called by the United Naga Council (UNC). The bandh, announced in protest against the killing of two people in Ukhrul district on April 18, began at midnight on April 20 and has affected Naga-inhabited districts across the state.
The situation turned violent at T. Khullen village on National Highway-2 (Imphal–Dimapur road) when local police moved to dismantle roadblocks set up by Naga volunteers enforcing the shutdown. Officials said the attempt to clear barricades sparked confrontation between volunteers and residents, escalating into wider clashes.
According to authorities, the disturbance intensified after people from nearby Changoubung village joined the fray. Eyewitnesses reported stone pelting from both sides, and there were reports of gunfire in the area, which sent residents fleeing and raised fears of further violence.
“A few rounds were fired during the commotion, but it is not yet clear who opened fire,” an official said, adding that the source of the shots has not been confirmed. No independent confirmation of casualties from gunfire was available in initial reports.
The Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) accused security forces of repeated provocation and said clashes began when authorities tried to remove barricades. The SDSA claimed several volunteers were injured and some property was damaged, though no official figures for injuries or damage have been released.
Security forces were quickly deployed to T. Khullen and along the affected stretch of NH-2 to restore order. Officials said the situation has largely been brought under control, but tension remains high and patrols continue to prevent further escalation.
The three-day shutdown has significantly disrupted normal life across Ukhrul, Kamjong, Senapati, Noney and Tamenglong districts. Vehicle movement is restricted and essential services have been affected in several areas. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and have placed additional security measures in affected districts as the bandh continues.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/north-east/clashes-gunfire-reported-in-senapati-during-uncs-72-hr-shutdown-1610838
Category: North East
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Publish Date: 2026-04-21 18:59:00
