Manipur: Kamjong District Imposes Curfew in Gampal and Haiyang After Arson Attack
News Summary
On April 23, 2025, a devastating arson attack struck the villages of Gampal and Haiyang in Manipur’s Kamjong district. Unidentified miscreants set fire to multiple homes around 9:00 AM, leading to significant property damage and heightened tensions in the region. In response, the District Magistrate imposed an indefinite curfew starting at 2:00 PM the same day, under Section 163(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The curfew restricts all movement and activities that could disturb public peace, with exceptions for essential services. Hungyo Yurreikan, SDC of Sahamphung, has been appointed as the Executive Magistrate to oversee the situation.
Understanding the Arson Attack in Kamjong District
What Happened in Gampal and Haiyang?
In the early hours of April 23, 2025, as most residents of Gampal and Haiyang were tending to their fields, unidentified armed individuals launched a coordinated arson attack. Multiple thatched-roof homes were set ablaze, resulting in the destruction of at least seven houses. The suddenness of the attack caught the villagers off guard, leading to panic and chaos. The New Indian Express
Immediate Government Response
Recognizing the severity of the situation, District Magistrate Rangnamei Rang Peter swiftly imposed a curfew under Section 163(1) of the BNSS, 2023. Effective from 2:00 PM on April 23, the curfew prohibits all movement and activities that could disrupt public order in Gampal and Haiyang. Essential services and law enforcement operations are exempted. Additionally, Hungyo Yurreikan, SDC of Sahamphung, has been designated as the Executive Magistrate to monitor and manage the situation on the ground.
Contextualizing the Violence
Manipur has been grappling with intermittent violence since May 2023, leading to the imposition of President’s Rule in February 2025. The recent arson attack adds to the series of unsettling events that have plagued the region. While the exact motives behind the Gampal and Haiyang incidents remain unclear, the pattern aligns with previous instances of unrest in the state.
Delving Deeper: The Broader Implications
Geopolitical Significance of Kamjong District
Kamjong district, located in the northeastern part of Manipur, shares a border with Myanmar. Its strategic location has historically made it a hotspot for cross-border insurgency and smuggling activities. The district’s terrain, characterized by dense forests and hilly landscapes, poses challenges for law enforcement and contributes to its vulnerability.
Socio-Economic Impact on the Affected Villages
The arson attack has not only destroyed homes but also disrupted the livelihoods of the villagers. Agriculture being the primary occupation, the loss of homes and potential damage to stored crops and equipment can have long-term economic repercussions. The psychological trauma inflicted on the residents, especially children and the elderly, is immeasurable.
Challenges in Law Enforcement
The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure in Kamjong district hinder swift law enforcement responses. Additionally, the presence of multiple insurgent groups complicates intelligence gathering and operational planning. Ensuring the safety of residents while pursuing perpetrators requires a delicate balance and strategic coordination among various security agencies.
Analyzing the Broader Patterns of Violence in Manipur
Recurring Themes of Arson and Unrest
The Gampal and Haiyang incidents are not isolated. Manipur has witnessed several arson attacks in recent years, often linked to ethnic tensions, political disagreements, or insurgent activities. These recurring patterns indicate deep-rooted issues that need comprehensive addressing.
Ethnic and Political Underpinnings
Manipur’s diverse ethnic composition, while culturally rich, has been a source of friction. Historical grievances, competition over resources, and political representation have often led to clashes. Understanding and addressing these underlying causes are crucial for lasting peace.
Need for Policy Reforms and Community Engagement
To prevent future incidents, there is a pressing need for policy reforms that focus on inclusive development, equitable resource distribution, and community engagement. Empowering local communities, promoting dialogue among different ethnic groups, and ensuring transparent governance can pave the way for a more harmonious Manipur.
Conclusion
The arson attack in Kamjong district’s Gampal and Haiyang villages underscores the fragile peace in Manipur. While immediate measures like curfews are essential for restoring order, long-term solutions require addressing the root causes of unrest. Through inclusive policies, community engagement, and sustained efforts, Manipur can aspire for a future free from such violence.
FAQs
1. What triggered the curfew in Gampal and Haiyang?
Unidentified assailants set fire to multiple village homes around 9:00 AM on April 23, 2025, prompting the District Magistrate to invoke Section 163 BNSS 2023 and impose a curfew at 2:00 PM to prevent further violence Northeast Live.
2. How long can a curfew under Section 163 BNSS remain in effect?
Legally, such orders last up to two months, but the State Government may extend them by up to six more months via notification; in this case, it remains “until further notice” Indian Kanoon.
3. What exemptions exist during the curfew?
Essential services—healthcare, law enforcement, firefighting, utilities—are exempt so critical operations continue uninterrupted.
4. Why is Manipur under President’s Rule?
Citing breakdown of constitutional machinery amid ethnic clashes and displacement, the Union Government imposed President’s Rule on February 13, 2025, transferring state functions to the Centre Reuters.
5. What steps are being taken for long-term peace?
Authorities and civil society are focusing on inclusive dialogue, community resilience programs, economic interdependence projects, and transparent legal processes to address root causes and build trust.
