Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: A violent standoff rattled Khoupum on Sunday evening. Suspected cadres from the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah and the Zeliangrong United Front traded gunfire near Gaidimjang Part 2, also known as Samlengtiang. The shooting started at 6:10 pm and lasted for 30 minutes before ending at 6:40 pm.
Authorities confirmed no deaths or injuries resulted from the exchange. Darkness slowed the security response to the hilly terrain, leaving local residents trapped as they finished their workday. Farmers and motorists caught in the middle abandoned their routes until the shooting stopped.
The Rongmei Luh Phuam, a local women's group, blamed the NSCN-IM for the disruption. They claimed the group arrived by vehicle near Irang Bridge before marching into ZUF territory to spark the conflict. The organization stated, "The organisation alleged that NSCN-IM cadres arrived by vehicle, got down near Irang Bridge and proceeded on foot into an area under ZUF influence, leading to the exchange of fire."
Regional leaders are now demanding peace. The Zeliangrong Welfare Association, Delhi warned against taking sides, noting that biased comments only deepen tribal divisions. The group urged civil society to stay neutral to ensure long-term stability.
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