Tension prevailed in Litan Sareikhong and its surrounding areas in Ukhrul district after armed militants allegedly set fire to several houses late on Monday night (February 9), officials said.
According to officials, Litan Sareikhong and the nearby village of Sikibung have remained tense since Sunday evening following intense stone-pelting incidents between two tribal groups. The situation prompted the district administration to impose prohibitory orders to prevent further escalation.
At around midnight, several houses belonging to members of the Tangkhul Naga community were allegedly torched at Litan Sareikhong by Kuki militants. In retaliation, a few houses belonging to the Kuki community were also reportedly set ablaze in nearby areas.
The Tangkhuls constitute the largest Naga tribe in Manipur, while Litan Sareikhong is predominantly inhabited by members of the Kuki community.
Sources said a rural bank and at least nine houses belonging to the Naga community were gutted in the fire, while three houses of the Kuki community were also reportedly burnt down.
Video footage of the arson has surfaced on social media, showing armed men setting fire to houses and vehicles. The videos allegedly show militants in camouflage uniforms carrying sophisticated weapons and firing several rounds into the air in the Litan area.
In view of the deteriorating situation, additional security forces have been deployed on routes leading to Litan to maintain law and order, prevent further disturbances, and restrict the movement of suspicious persons, sources said.
An order issued by Ukhrul District Magistrate Asish Das stated that there was a strong apprehension of a breach of peace and public tranquillity in Litan village between members of the Tangkhul and Kuki communities. “Such disturbances could lead to serious breaches of peace and danger to public tranquillity, and pose risks to human lives and property,” the order said, adding that the circumstances necessitated immediate action.
Invoking Sub-Section 1 of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the District Magistrate ordered a complete prohibition on the movement of individuals outside their residences, as well as any activity that could disturb law and order in the notified area, from 7 pm on February 8, 2026, until further orders. The restrictions, however, do not apply to government officials and security personnel.
Officials said tension had been simmering in the area since Saturday night after a member of the Tangkhul community was allegedly assaulted by seven to eight persons at Litan village, triggering fresh unrest.
