The security situation in Manipur deteriorated sharply overnight as multiple violent incidents—including deadly communal clashes in Thoubal, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack on central forces, and arson in Kamjong district—were reported across the state between Sunday night and the early hours of Monday.

Deadly Clashes in Thoubal

Violent clashes broke out between groups of youths belonging to the Meitei and Meitei-Pangal communities at Khongabak in Thoubal district during the intervening night of October 18 and 19.

According to initial security reports, the confrontation began as a scuffle during a local musical event and rapidly escalated into broader communal violence, spreading to neighboring areas including Sangaiyumpham. At least one Meitei youth has been confirmed dead, while unconfirmed reports indicate that a Pangal youth was killed during the violence. Several others sustained injuries in the clashes, which also saw the burning of residential houses and properties.

To prevent the situation from spiralling out of control, authorities requisitioned Internal Security (IS) columns from the 9 Sector Assam Rifles at around 12:45 AM. Two columns were immediately deployed to Thoubal, while two additional columns were placed on standby at Lilong. Security forces managed to bring the immediate violence under control by 3:00 AM, though the district and adjacent areas—particularly Lilong, Yairipok, and Heirok—remain on high alert amid fears of retaliatory violence.

Three CRPF Personnel Injured in Midnight IED Blast

In a separate incident around midnight, suspected militants triggered an IED blast targeting a patrol party near the post of the 189 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

Three CRPF personnel sustained injuries in the explosion. They were immediately evacuated to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal for treatment. Medical officials have stated that all three personnel are currently in stable condition and out of danger.

Arson Continues in Kamjong

Meanwhile, the ongoing Kuki-Naga tensions in Kamjong district saw fresh escalation last night as miscreants set ablaze 13 houses. Security forces have been alerted to the area to assess the damage and prevent further flare-ups.

Growing Calls for Central Intervention

The overnight surge in violence adds to a prolonged period of instability that has plagued Manipur since the second week of February 2026. Security observers and local assessment reports have described the law and order situation as “alarming,” pointing to a recurring cycle of clashes and arson across multiple districts.

With tensions running high across several flashpoints, pressure is mounting on the state administration, alongside growing calls for decisive intervention from the Central leadership to restore normalcy and halt the spread of violence.

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