Churachandpur, Manipur (Bureu) : Fresh violent clashes erupted in Manipur’s Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district in early February 2026 after protests broke out against Kuki-Zo MLAs joining the newly formed BJP led government under Chief Minister Y. Khemchand. The unrest signals a dangerous return of instability in a region already scarred by prolonged ethnic violence.
Large crowds gathered near Tuibong Bazaar to oppose the political move, accusing the MLAs of betraying community interests. What began as a protest soon turned violent as mobs confronted security forces deployed to maintain order. Protesters burned tyres, blocked key roads and hurled stones at police and paramilitary personnel, forcing authorities to respond with tear gas and baton charges.
Several people, including security personnel, were reportedly injured in the clashes, while public and private property suffered damage. The violence triggered panic among residents, many of whom remained confined to their homes as streets turned into flashpoints of confrontation.
The immediate trigger for the unrest was the decision of Kuki-Zo legislators to support and join the new BJP-led government, a move strongly opposed by influential Kuki civil society groups and protest leaders. Many within the community viewed the decision as a political betrayal at a time when demands for justice, security and political safeguards remain unresolved following the earlier ethnic conflict.
In response to the violence, a total shutdown was enforced across Kuki-Zo dominated areas of Churachandpur district. Markets, schools, offices and transport services remained closed for two consecutive days, bringing daily life to a standstill. Security deployment was significantly increased, with patrols intensified to prevent further escalation.
After two days of intense unrest, the district began limping back toward normalcy, though tension remains high. Shops reopened partially and limited movement resumed, but fear of renewed clashes continues to grip the population. Authorities described the situation as under control but sensitive, urging restraint and dialogue.
The fresh outbreak of violence has reignited fears about Manipur’s fragile peace process. The state has already witnessed years of ethnic strife between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups, leaving hundreds dead and tens of thousands displaced. Analysts warn that internal political fractures within the Kuki community, combined with controversial government formation, could further destabilize the region.
The Churachandpur unrest once again highlights how political decisions in Manipur carry explosive consequences on the ground, raising serious questions about governance, representation and the future of peace in the troubled northeastern state.
