Manipur Security Review: Centre Flags ‘Security Vacuum’ Amid New Kuki-Naga Tensions

IMPHAL/NEW DELHI — Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan chaired a high-level security review on Monday, April 27, 2026, as Manipur faces a dangerous resurgence of ethnic violence. The meeting, attended by top intelligence and military brass, addressed a critical “security vacuum” and the emergence of new conflict zones between the Kuki and Naga communities.

The ‘Security Vacuum’ Crisis

A senior official revealed that the withdrawal of approximately 8,500 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)—reassigned for election duty in West Bengal—has left significant gaps in the state’s security grid. This vacuum has been exploited by insurgent groups and local mobs, leading to:

• Fresh Killings: Since April 7, the state has recorded 11 deaths, including two children.
• Blockades: Sustained disruptions by women’s groups have hindered the movement of the remaining 36,000 security personnel (including Assam Rifles).

Emerging Conflict in Ukhrul

While the initial conflict centered on Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, a fresh and worrying front has opened in the Naga-dominated Ukhrul district. Clashes between Tangkhul Nagas and Kukis erupted on February 7, just days after the revocation of President’s Rule and the swearing-in of the new Chief Minister, Y. Khemchand Singh.

In response, nine additional columns of the Assam Rifles have been rushed to the district to prevent a full-scale ethnic spillover.

Key Security Concerns Flagged:

• Looted Weaponry: The meeting highlighted the grave threat posed by the UNLF (Pambei faction), which continues to hold a massive cache of looted police weapons despite signing a peace agreement in November 2023.
• SoO Camp Relocation: Officials discussed the relocation of Kuki-Zo insurgent camps currently under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact to prevent direct contact with rival groups.
• Social Media Monitoring: Over 3,300 inciteful posts have been taken down as the state battles a digital war of misinformation.

Protests in Imphal and Bishnupur

Violence was not limited to the hills. In the Meitei-dominated Bishnupur district, killings were reported over the weekend, leading to a massive march by women-led groups toward the Chief Minister’s residence in Imphal. The protest resulted in violent clashes with security forces, leaving several injured.