March 21, 2026 (IMP): Two separate fresh firing incidents that reportedly took place at Shangkai village and later along the Leplen–Tingpibung road at the fringes of Ukhrul–Kangpokpi injured two individuals.
According to reports, the first incident occurred in the wee hours of the morning (around 5:15 AM) at Shangkai village, and another along the Leplen–Tingpibung road at around 9:30 AM between Tingpibung and Leplen villages, which injured the two persons. The direction of fire is suspected to have come from the direction of Sinakeithei (Sanakeithel) of Ukhrul district, Manipur.
The Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee and the Kuki CSO Working Committee (Ukhrul), in a statement, questioned the alleged inaction of personnel from the 4th Mahar Regiment stationed at Sinakeithel during the incident. It also asked why security forces failed to intervene and termed the alleged inaction a serious dereliction of duty.
It urged authorities to identify those responsible and take action under the law to prevent further escalation. The Kuki CSO Working Committee (Ukhrul) condemned the incidents, stating they occurred at a time when the community was already mourning the deaths of Thenkhing Baite and Thangboimang Lunkim. The committee said it had extended cooperation to the authorities and lifted the shutdown on March 20 after assurances were received.
