Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur is splintering. A long-standing conflict between Meitei and Kuki groups has morphed into a dangerous triangle, pulling the Naga community into a violent struggle for territory and survival. What began as a drunken brawl in February 2026 has escalated into a series of kidnappings, retaliatory killings, and a crippling economic blockade.
The tension hit a breaking point on May 13 when unidentified gunmen ambushed and killed three Thadou church leaders near Kangpokpi district. The attack ignited immediate outrage. Retaliatory abductions followed, with 28 Kukis and 20 Nagas taken hostage. While many were released after negotiations, six Nagas were found dead on June 9 near Leilon Vaiphei village. Their families, left in grief, struggle for answers.
"I recognized him from his shirt," said Wibonliu Chawang, wife of the murdered Phenrilung Chawang. The discovery of the mutilated bodies has further hardened community lines, with both sides trading blame while denying involvement in the mounting civilian death toll.
A 46-day blockade on National Highway 2 has turned Kangpokpi into a desperate zone. Essential supplies are nearly gone. Families report paying 5,000 rupees for a sack of rice or a gas cylinder. Fuel costs have skyrocketed to 250 rupees per liter. Residents like Hatneithem Haokip are scavenging for food, sending children away, and fighting daily just to stay alive.
"I will do whatever it takes for my children. There is hardly any work available because everyone is facing the same difficulties, but I will continue searching for work and keep fighting for my family," Haokip said. Meanwhile, released Kuki hostages remain silent, shackled by fear and private promises to their captors.
Local organizations are pointing fingers at armed groups operating under government Suspension of Operations agreements. Naga leaders demand swift justice, while Kuki groups allege they are being scapegoated by larger political agendas. As humanitarian conditions worsen, the state remains caught in a deepening cycle of violence with no end in sight.
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