1 Dead, 5 Injured In Gunfight Between Naga Groups In Manipur
Naga group clash in Manipur leaves one dead, five injured.
At least one person was killed and five others injured after an exchange of fire between two Naga armed groups in the Khumji area of Manipur’s Noney district, according to sources. The confrontation took place in a remote forested area, with security personnel yet to reach the site because of the difficult terrain.
The gunfight reportedly involved the JUF-Jenchui (ZUF-J) and JUF-Kamson (ZUF-K) factions of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF). The two factions have been involved in longstanding tensions and armed rivalry over influence and control in areas inhabited by the Zeliangrong community.
Sources indicated that the situation remained fluid and that the casualty figures could change once security personnel reach the location and conduct a detailed assessment. No official account of the incident had been issued by security agencies at the time of reporting.
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The latest confrontation reportedly occurred in a forested stretch around Khumji, away from populated areas. The remoteness of the location and challenging terrain have made access difficult for security forces. The circumstances that led to the latest exchange of fire are yet to be officially established.
The incident comes against the backdrop of longstanding rivalry involving the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM), the ZUF and different factions within the ZUF. The Zeliangrong United Front was formed in 2011 following a split involving former NSCN-IM cadres and later developed a separate political position focused on Zeliangrong community interests.
Tensions between Naga groups have periodically resulted in armed confrontations in the Khoupum Valley and other Zeliangrong-inhabited areas of western Manipur, including Noney and neighbouring districts. The ZUF has advocated the protection of Zeliangrong people, land and natural resources and has maintained a demand for bringing Zeliangrong-inhabited areas under a single administrative arrangement. Further details are expected after security personnel reach the site and assess the situation.
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