In a disturbing turn of events, Manipur’s Kangpokpi District witnessed another outbreak of violence, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives. This incident unfolded on Tuesday morning, around 7:00 am, when three members of the Kuki-Zomi community were ambushed while traveling in a vehicle near Ireng Naga village in Kangpokpi district.

The victims, identified as Satneo Tuboi, Ngamminlun Lhouvum, and Ngamminlun Kipgen, fell victim to what appears to be an ambush. The conflict in Manipur has been escalating for over four months, marked by frequent reports of violent clashes and casualties. Only days before this incident, two individuals were killed, and several were injured, including security personnel, during a heavy exchange of gunfire in Pallel.

Authorities have been diligently working to find a political solution to the ethnic clashes that have plagued the state. In August, the state government proposed to the Centre that it was willing to grant greater autonomy to the existing hill councils in Manipur. However, the proposal to establish separate administration, as demanded by some Kuki groups, was met with resistance from the government and other segments of the population in the state. Despite these challenges, officials remain committed to addressing the concerns of the hill tribes in an effort to restore peace and stability.

This recent incident has added to the growing concern over the volatile situation in Manipur. The authorities have been cautioned by central agencies about miscreants who have acquired police and security force uniforms to pose as personnel, further exacerbating the violence.

The attack occurred in an area straddling Imphal West and Kangpokpi districts, and the suspects are believed to have fled in a vehicle. Security forces have launched combing operations to apprehend the perpetrators. Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), representing the Kuki community, has identified the deceased as Satneo Tuboi, Ngamminlun Lhouvum, and Ngamminlun Kipgen. They confirmed that the armed miscreants responsible for the attack were dressed in military attire.

This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and tribal communities that have plagued Manipur since May, resulting in over 160 casualties and the displacement of approximately 50,000 people. On August 29 and August 31, violent confrontations between tribal Kukis and dominant Meiteis claimed eight lives and left dozens injured, including three India Reserve Battalion personnel.

The authorities continue to grapple with the complex task of restoring peace and stability in the region while addressing the grievances of various ethnic groups. Manipur’s residents remain hopeful that a lasting solution can be found to put an end to the cycle of violence that has cast a shadow over their lives for far too long.