On Thursday, February 5, 2026, a violent clash erupted in Churachandpur, Manipur, as mobs protested against Kuki-Zo legislators joining the newly reinstated BJP-led government under Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. The unrest was triggered by the Kuki-Zo Council’s declaration of a “social boycott” and a “total shutdown,” viewing the MLAs’ participation as a betrayal of the community’s demand for a separate administration (Union Territory).
While the government seeks to restore normalcy following a year of President’s Rule, tribal bodies argue that the current political arrangement ignores their collective stand, leading to arson and stone-pelting that left two people injured.
Escalation in Tuibong and Official Response
The situation took a volatile turn near Tuibong Bazaar, where protesters torched tyres and raised slogans against the appointment of Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen, who notably took her oath virtually from New Delhi. Security forces were met with stone-pelting as they attempted to disperse the crowd, eventually resorting to a baton charge.
A senior police officer confirmed the tension, stating, “Additional forces have been rushed to bring the situation under control.” This surge in violence highlights a significant breakdown in trust, as local groups like the Joint Forum of Seven accuse tribal representatives of disregarding the Lungthu Resolution, which prohibited government participation without a written commitment for a political solution.
A State Fractured by Ethnic Distrust
This latest unrest is a continuation of the deep-seated ethnic conflict that ignited in May 2023, a crisis that has officially claimed over 260 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people. The transition from President’s Rule—imposed in early 2025—to a popular government was intended to signal stability. However, for many in the hill districts, the move by five Kuki-Zo MLAs to align with the Imphal-based administration is seen as a violation of a community mandate.
Security has since been intensified around the residences of legislators like LM Khaute and Ngursanglur Sanate to prevent further escalations, as the state remains physically and politically divided between the valley and the hills.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe that while the restoration of an elected government is a constitutional milestone, true governance cannot exist without the trust and consent of all communities involved. Peace is not merely the absence of President’s Rule; it is the presence of inclusive dialogue and justice.
Forcing a political “normalcy” while the wounds of displacement and loss are still raw only risks further alienation. We urge both the state leadership and tribal representatives to prioritise empathy over optics and engage in a sincere reconciliation process that addresses the fundamental aspirations of every citizen.
How can the government bridge this deep chasm of distrust to ensure a future where every community feels heard and safe? Share your thoughts below.
Protest breaks out in Manipur's Churachandpur against Kuki leaders for joining the new government. pic.twitter.com/DVA3bc2g2D
— Debanish Achom (@debanishachom) February 5, 2026
