Security Forces Clash with Protesters in Manipur’s Ukhrul District

IMPHAL - The situation in Manipur continues to deteriorate as fresh clashes erupted between security forces and protesters in the Ukhrul district, with reports indicating that the Indian Army's Assam Rifles opened fire on civilians demanding basic rights .

🚨🇮🇳 Manipur Situation is Getting Worse!

Indian Army’s Assam Rifles opened fire on protesters demanding basic rights in the Ukhrul district of Manipur.

Indian Army is making life worse for people in Manipur, Kashmir, Nagaland, Khalistan, and even its own citizens. pic.twitter.com/yrEGlhQHcZ

- Zard si Gana (@ZardSi) July 26, 2026

According to local reports, the confrontation occurred during a protest against the establishment of a new security post in the district. The protest, which involved women, elderly residents, and student activists from the Tangkhul Naga community, was being carried out democratically when security forces responded with force .

Assam Rifles Accused of Excessive Force

The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex body of the Tangkhul Naga tribe, has strongly condemned what it described as excesses committed by personnel of the 40 Assam Rifles Battalion during the confrontations .

According to the organization, Assam Rifles personnel responded with:

• Automatic rifle fire - multiple rounds fired at protesters

• Tear gas - used to disperse peaceful demonstrators

• Baton charges - including against women protesters

The TNL alleged that the commanding officer of the 40 Assam Rifles Battalion at Shangshak, identified as Colonel Sunil Singh Lunthi, personally led a baton charge against women protesters at Finch Corner .

More than 22 women were reportedly injured and were undergoing medical treatment at Ukhrul District Hospital, with some in critical condition .

Long-Standing Grievances

The latest clashes come against the backdrop of long-standing ethnic tensions in Manipur and widespread opposition to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which grants sweeping powers to security forces in what the Indian government designates as "disturbed areas" .

The ethnic violence that began in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has claimed over 260 lives and displaced nearly 60,000 people, creating a deep divide between communities .

Calls for Justice

Local community leaders and civil society organizations have demanded a transparent investigation into the incident and the withdrawal of AFSPA from the state. Protesters continue to demonstrate against what they describe as "undue harassment" and the "draconian law" that enables human rights abuses .

The Indian government has not yet issued an official statement regarding the latest clashes in Ukhrul.