IMPHAL, India (Kashmir English): At least three people were killed in the latest unrest in India’s troubled northeastern Manipur state, police said.
Gun battles between rival ethnic groups in the far-flung region are rampant. The state has seen periodic clashes for nearly three years between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community in which more than 250 people have been killed.
“In a heavy exchange of fire… three individuals sustained fatal bullet injuries,” Manipur police said in a statement.
“On 24.04.2026 in a heavy exchange of fire at Mullam village area under Litan-PS, Ukhrul district, three individuals sustained fatal bullet injuries. The deceased have been identified as: Paominlun Haolai (22) of Haijang village, Singngat Sub-Division, Churachandpur district; Letlal Sitlhou (41) of K. Khonom village, Kangpokpi district; and Horshokmi Jamang (29) of Chatric Khullen village, Kamjong district.,” said police in a statement.
Security measures have been tightened in the area to prevent further escalation of violence. Operations are still underway in the surrounding area, the police said.
The clashes took place at Mullam village in Ukhrul district, with police did not specifying which community the men came from.
“Security measures have been enhanced in the area to prevent further escalation of violence,” police said.
Manipur enmity
Longstanding enmity between the Meitei and Kuki communities revolves around competition for land and public jobs.
Rights activists have accused local leaders of fanning ethnic divisions for political gains.
In Manipur, unrest erupted in 2023, when around 60,000 people were forced to flee their homes, according to government figures.
