Manipur: Tensions erupt in Ukhrul over land dispute, movement restricted to maintain law and order

Tensions flared today in Ukhrul district as a land dispute between Hunphun and Hungphung villages escalated, prompting local authorities to impose immediate restrictions on movement in the area to maintain law and order. The conflict, rooted in a long-standing territorial disagreement between the two neighboring villages, has seen multiple confrontations over the years. 

According to official sources, the situation intensified when Hunphun Village Authority raised objections to a social work event organized by the Tangkhul Hunphun Youth and Students Organization (THYSO) in the Hunphun area. The Ukhrul Superintendent of Police, through letter No. C-1(L&O)/2024-SP(UKL)/7363, issued on October 2, 2024, expressed concern over the potential for unrest arising from the event and the ongoing land dispute, which could lead to serious breaches of peace and public safety.

In response to the heightened tensions, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Dinringam Kamei invoked emergency powers under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023. The magistrate issued an order restricting movement in the affected areas starting from 9:30 AM on October 2, 2024, until further notice. The order aims to prevent any actions or activities that could exacerbate the situation and threaten public safety, peace, and property.

Exemptions to the order apply to government officials responsible for maintaining law and order and providing essential services. In exceptional cases, individuals seeking to organize processions, such as for marriages or funerals, must obtain prior written permission from the magistrate or the Superintendent of Police, Ukhrul District.

To ensure proper enforcement of these measures, Hanyo Luke Rungsung, SDC Ukhrul, and Riamei Jangmei, SDC/BO DC Ukhrul, have been designated as Executive Magistrates for the Thingrasa and Ngaphar areas, respectively. Their role will be to oversee the situation and ensure compliance with the imposed restrictions.

As tensions remain high, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation and ensure the safety of residents in both villages.

Also read: Manipur: 110 checkpoints installed across hill and valley districts amid heightened vigilance