Kohima: Violence between the Tikhir and Yimkhiung communities spilled into Shamator on October 11, following a deadly clash in Pungro. Vandalism hit the Shamator district headquarters, with officials reporting damage to at least 10 or 11 houses belonging to a minority community. Tensions ignited on October 10 during a dispute over a tribal festival, escalating into a gunfight in Longtsunger village that left one person dead and another wounded.
Retaliatory violence followed in Kiusam, Zaonger, Pokphur, and the Pungro sub-divisional headquarters. In Pungro town, 47 people were displaced after eight houses were vandalized and six burned. Police registered a suo moto case and currently maintain a heavy security presence. Officials claim the situation is under control. “The situation is tense but with timely intervention of the district administration and the police, the situation is under control as of now,” a DIPR release noted.
Shamator district authorities enforced Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita on October 10. The order bans public gatherings, rallies, and the carrying of weapons to prevent further unrest. Police initially faced resistance while trying to secure the areas and relocate affected residents.
Community leaders are pushing for calm. The United Sangtam Likhüm Pümji issued a peace advisory, warning that it would not accept responsibility for those who disrupt law and order. Meanwhile, the Yimkhiung Tribal Council issued a public notice on October 11 demanding harmony and threatening strong action against anyone inciting violence. Authorities continue to investigate the source of the conflict as residents wait for the tension to subside.
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