Four members of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), a Kuki insurgent outfit not part of the Suspension of Operation agreement, were killed on Tuesday during a security operation in Manipur’s Khanpi village, roughly 80 km from Churachandpur. According to the Assam Rifles, the encounter began when UKNA militants allegedly fired on Army personnel conducting a search mission. Security forces returned fire, killing the four insurgents on the spot. The Army and Assam Rifles continued search and combing operations in nearby forested zones following the clash.
Authorities said the action was linked to recent violent activities attributed to the UKNA, including the killing of a village chief, intimidation of locals, and efforts to create instability in the region. An official statement said the neutralisation of the militants reflects the security forces’ determination to protect civilians and maintain order in Manipur.
The incident triggered strong reactions from several Kuki civil organisations, including the Kuki Inpi Churachandpur, Kuki Chiefs Association, Kuki Women’s Union, and Kuki Students’ Organisation. In a joint statement, the groups condemned the deaths, describing them as tragic, and urged both security forces and armed groups to avoid further escalation. They also called for renewed efforts toward a negotiated political resolution.
As a response to the killings, the organisations announced a district-wide shutdown in Churachandpur on the day of the funeral as a sign of mourning. They reiterated their demand for dialogue and a political arrangement for the Kuki–Zo areas, including consideration of a separate administrative structure.
Security arrangements have been intensified across Churachandpur following the encounter and the shutdown announcement.
