Woman Shot Dead as Fresh Violence Erupts in Manipur’s Kamjong, Houses Set Ablaze

Fresh violence erupted in Manipur’s Kamjong district after a woman was allegedly shot dead in Chassad village on Friday night, October 9. The incident triggered an exchange of fire between armed groups, reports of houses being set ablaze and the imposition of prohibitory restrictions by the district administration amid concerns over further escalation.

The deceased was identified as Domkhonei Touthang, a mother of five. According to officials, the incident occurred at around 9.35 pm in Chassad, a Kuki-majority village situated in the Naga-dominated Kamjong district. She sustained gunshot injuries near her neck and died within minutes.

The killing was followed by renewed violence in the area, with gunfire continuing into Saturday morning. Several houses were reportedly torched during the unrest, although the exact number of properties affected and the extent of the damage had not been established at the time of reporting. The situation heightened concerns about the safety of residents in the conflict-affected region.

According to reports from the ground, the shooting took place amid tensions surrounding the alleged arrest and detention of village volunteers. Kuki civil society organisations and local accounts alleged that security personnel opened fire during a protest. However, the circumstances surrounding the shooting and responsibility for the incident remained disputed.

The violence also intensified tensions between Kuki and Naga groups in the district. The exchange of fire and reports of arson raised fears of further clashes, prompting authorities to take preventive measures to maintain law and order.

The Kamjong district administration imposed prohibitory orders within a 400-metre radius of Chassad Police Gate Junction under Section 162 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The restrictions prohibit the assembly of five or more people and will remain in force until further notice. Security personnel and other authorised individuals are exempted from the restrictions. The district administration also directed the Superintendent of Police to ensure adequate security deployment in the affected area.

The latest incident adds to the continuing security challenges in Manipur, where tensions between communities have repeatedly raised concerns about civilian safety. The killing has prompted calls from civil society groups for an impartial investigation, accountability and assistance for the victim’s family, particularly her five children. Authorities continue to face the challenge of preventing further violence and restoring stability in the district.