Fresh Outbreak of Violence Rocks Churachandpur District
Despite earlier attempts to calm the situation, tensions erupted once more in Churachandpur late on Thursday night. The unrest began with renewed attempts by agitated mobs to target the residence of local MLA LM Khaute, following a day of protests led by women's groups.
Security Forces Foil Attack on MLA's Home
Security personnel successfully prevented a second attempt by crowds to vandalize the home of MLA LM Khaute. However, the unrest quickly spread to other areas of the town, creating a volatile situation that required immediate intervention.
Youths Target VPC President's Residence
At approximately 9:20 PM on Thursday, groups of youths attempted to storm the residence of Henlianthang Thanglet Vaiphei, who serves as both president of the Vaiphei People's Council (VPC) and chairperson of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC). This aggressive move triggered brief but intense clashes between rival factions.
The confrontation escalated to include stone-pelting between opposing groups, forcing security forces to respond with tear gas and smoke bombs to disperse the gathering crowd and restore order temporarily.
VPC Hall Vandalized in Midnight Attack
By midnight, mobs had regrouped and directed their aggression toward the VPC Hall. Protesters vandalized sections of the building, pelting stones and causing significant property damage in what appeared to be a coordinated escalation of violence.
Root Causes of the Unrest
The clashes followed an organized sit-in protest by the Vaiphei Women Association (VWA), who were demonstrating against MLA Khaute's involvement in the formation of the popular government. This political issue has deepened existing divisions among youth groups in the region, creating fertile ground for conflict.
Police Confirm Situation Under Control
Churachandpur Superintendent of Police Gaurav Dogra (IPS) provided an update on the developing situation, stating that security has been reinforced across the town. "The situation is currently under control," Dogra confirmed, adding that security forces remain deployed throughout Churachandpur to monitor developments and prevent further outbreaks of violence.
Authorities continue to maintain a strong presence in sensitive areas, with particular attention to locations that have previously been targeted during the unrest. The police are working to identify those responsible for the vandalism and clashes while urging community leaders to help calm tensions among local residents.
