The Hungpung Village Authority in Ukhrul district, Manipur, has issued a call for the immediate suspension, termination, and transfer of senior district police officers following a violent clash over a boundary dispute on October 2 that resulted in four deaths and multiple injuries.
In a letter to Deputy Commissioner Zuringla Kengoo, the Hungpung Village Authority demanded action against Ukhrul police officers, including Hopekinson Chiphang, Ngashanhao Sareo, and Anderson Shaiza, who are accused of inciting the violence. The village authority also requested the recovery of arms looted from the Ukhrul Police Station within 24 hours.
The land dispute between Hungpung and Hunphun villages dates back to British colonial times and remains unresolved. The recent violence occurred during a cleanliness drive organized by the Thawaijao Hungpung Young Students Organisation (THYSO), a decade-long tradition supported by the district administration.
The Hungpung Village Authority emphasized that if the implicated police officers are not removed, further violence could ensue. They also demanded transparency in the investigation, including detailed forensic reports of the victims, to ensure justice.
As tensions persist, the focus remains on restoring order and addressing the underlying boundary dispute to prevent further escalation. The involvement of senior police officers in the incident has raised concerns about impartiality and the need for a thorough investigation to maintain peace in the region.
