Tensions rise in Manipur as two Kukis killed before Amit Shah's Lok Sabha election campaign

Two Kuki men were killed in Manipur, near the boundary separating Imphal West and Kangpokpi districts, just two days before Home Minister Amit Shah's expected visit for Lok Sabha election campaigning.

Gunfight erupts

The incident involved a gunfight between Kuki men and members of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei armed group, at Kamu Saichang village in Kangpokpi district. The casualties were identified as Kamlengsat Lunkim and Kamminlal Lupheng, both from Kangpokpi.

Kuki-Zo organizations claim the deceased were "village volunteers" deployed to safeguard Kuki villages against potential attacks by Meitei miscreants. They allege the involvement of Arambai Tenggol, Manipur police commandos, and central security forces.

M For #Manipur

2 people have been killed today in Imphal East close to the border of Kangpokpi district.

This is in continuation to the violence that started on May 03, 2023.

Over 200 people have been killed so far, thousands displaced in over 11 months now.

And #India…

— Tamal Saha (@Tamal0401) April 13, 2024

What was official response?

However, sources from central agencies suggest the deaths occurred in a clash between armed individuals from both communities. Security forces intervened to prevent further escalation.

Security has been heightened along the boundary ahead of Shah's campaign. Polling for Inner Manipur and Kuki-dominated areas in Outer Manipur Lok Sabha constituencies is scheduled for April 19.

Escalating tensions in Manipur

Recent violence, including a gunfight injuring two Meitei men, raises concerns. Over 210 people have died and 60,000 displaced due to Meitei-Kuki conflicts since May last year.

The NIA filed a chargesheet against two individuals, including "main conspirator" Seiminlun Gangte, a Kuki man, for an IED explosion near Kwakta in Bishnupur district last June. Gangte, previously arrested, faces charges related to the explosion causing injuries and property damage.