A violent clash between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur's Ukhrul district has left nearly 50 houses in ashes, forcing hundreds to flee and prompting authorities to impose a five-day internet blackout. The unrest erupted last Saturday in Litan village following a brawl that injured a local Tangkhul Naga man, Sterling Shimray, from nearby Sakibung. Despite a ban on unlawful assemblies, arsonists struck overnight into Tuesday, setting fire to at least 18 homes—blazes fanned by strong winds that gutted around 50 structures in total. Heavy gunfire echoed through the area as rival groups exchanged shots, with security forces intervening to restore calm amid reports of delayed response.

Eyewitnesses described armed men in camouflage torching homes and vehicles from both Naga and Kuki sides, including a rural bank branch. Families—primarily women, children, and elderly—evacuated to relief camps in Kangpokpi and Ukhrul districts, such as Motbung and Saikul. A minor fire in nearby K Lungwiram village was quickly contained, but it heightened fears across the region. Local leaders, including Deputy CM Losii Dikho and MLA Ram Muivah, have called for urgent peace talks, while the Konsaram Village Authority demands immediate relief and probes into the violence.

Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das sought and received approval for suspending mobile data, broadband, VPNs, and VSAT services until Sunday. The move aims to prevent social media from amplifying rumors and inciting further clashes. Army and paramilitary troops are now deployed heavily, patrolling hotspots.

Opposition figures like Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra Singh criticized the state government, urging better control despite the new administration. This flare-up underscores ongoing Naga-Kuki frictions over land and resources in Manipur's hills, where past incidents have led to prolonged standoffs. Police dismissed rumors of large-scale evacuations from Konshakhul, clarifying only a handful of families relocated for schooling. As the situation stabilizes, focus shifts to rehabilitation and dialogue to prevent recurrence. Updates will follow as more details emerge.