Violence Erupts Again in Manipur After PM Modi's Visit, Kuki Leader's House Set on Fire in Churachandpur

The incident has created tension in the area. Meanwhile, another leader's house was also targeted by miscreants, but local intervention prevented it from being set ablaze.

Officials have claimed that the residence of Calvin Aikhenthang, a leader of the 'Kuki National Organisation' (KNO), was set on fire late Sunday night. The KNO has signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the central government. However, a section of locals in Churachandpur has claimed that the fire was due to a short circuit.

Meanwhile, officials stated that the residence of Ginza Wuahljong, spokesperson for the 'Kuki Zo Council' (KZC) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), was also targeted by miscreants, but timely intervention by locals saved the house from being set on fire.

These incidents of arson at Kuki leaders' homes just one day after the PM's visit have reignited tensions in the state, which has been restless for two years.

Officials said that the signing of the SoO agreement with the KNO and the United People's Front (UPF) would have a positive impact on peace efforts in the troubled state.

Additionally, the civil society group KZC had decided to open National Highway-2 for the movement of passengers and essential goods passing through Manipur.

However, the KZC clarified on Monday that it has not announced the 'reopening of NH-2' and that 'no free movement of any kind on this route has been permitted.'

In a statement, the council said, "Our request was only to the people of Kangpokpi district to cooperate with the security forces in maintaining the safety of passengers on NH-2 as per the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs."

The KZC claimed that the central government's statement has been 'misinterpreted' and has created 'unnecessary confusion.'

The council stated, "Due to the lack of any resolution or agreement in the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities so far, no individual from any side can enter the relevant areas under any circumstances."