IMPHAL, April 24: A coalition of Kuki-Zo organisations has issued a strong condemnation of the recent arson attacks and violence in the villages of Gampal and Haijang, located in Manipur’s Kamjong District.

In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO-GHQ), Kuki Chiefs’ Association, Manipur (KCA-M), Kuki Women Union (KWU-GHQ), and the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) described the attacks as “acts of terror” that have caused deep emotional and psychological trauma to the already vulnerable local population.

The organisations expressed grave concern over the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians in these villages, which they believe has further destabilised a region already grappling with heightened ethnic tensions. They accused the Government of India of failing to protect marginalised communities and allowing continued violence to go unchecked in the area.

Citing the destruction of homes and properties in Gampal and Haijang, the Kuki-Zo groups called for immediate intervention to rebuild the affected villages and ensure proper rehabilitation of displaced families. They demanded fair compensation for the losses suffered and urged the deployment of adequate and neutral security forces to safeguard the residents and prevent further violence. The statement also appealed for the swift provision of essential supplies such as food, medical assistance, and shelter to those who have been displaced or otherwise affected by the violence.

The statement also called on the central government to act urgently, impartially, and with integrity, underscoring the community’s belief that the people of Gampal, Haijang, and the broader Kuki-Zo population deserve not only protection but also justice and long-term peace.

The arson attack broke out early on Wednesday morning when alleged armed men attacked the villages and set fire to 15 houses. Gampal and Haijang, part of the Sahamphung Sub-Division, are situated in Manipur’s Kamjong District, which shares its eastern border with Myanmar.

In the aftermath of the incident, District Magistrate of Kamjong, Rangnamei Rang Peter, imposed a curfew beginning at 2:00 PM on April 23, 2025, which will remain in effect until further notice. The curfew order was issued following a report from the Superintendent of Police, Kamjong, who confirmed that unidentified miscreants had set fire to multiple homes in the area around 9:00 AM, sparking fears of a breakdown in law and order and posing a serious threat to public safety.

Government personnel involved in law enforcement and essential services are exempt from the curfew restrictions. However, any individual or group wishing to organise a procession related to weddings, funerals, or other celebrations within the restricted zones must seek prior written approval from either the District Magistrate or the Superintendent of Police, Kamjong.

To ensure compliance with the curfew and maintain peace in the affected areas, Hungyo Yurreikan, SDC of Sahamphung, has been appointed as the Executive Magistrate for the villages of Gampal and Haiyang.