Seven hurt as groups clash over land dispute

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 16

At least seven villagers, including three women, were injured as rival group clashed over a disputed land that lies between Haraothel, Kangkokpi district and Senjam Chirang, Imphal West.

The clash reportedly broke out around 10 am when villagers of Sejam Chirang went to the disputed area to stop the construction of farms by villagers of L. Tangnuam.

Of the seven injured, a villager from Senjam Chirang identified as Ch. Rome, 45, son of late Ch. Ngouthoi sustained bullet injury on his left chest and has been evacuated to Raj Medicity.

The six villagers of Haraothel including three women who sustained injuries during the clash, have been identified as as Kamkholian Vaiphei, 52, son of late Hengkhothang Vaiphei, Agen Vaiphei, 56, son of late Langkam Vaiphei, Langinghao Vaiphei, 19, son Kamkholian Vaiphei, Nenghoikim Vaiphei, 47, daughter of Lalmilal Vaiphei, Ngahthenneng Vaiphei, 39, daughter of Lalmilal Vaiphei and Nangdoihat Vaiphei, 41, daughter of late Lanmingdhang Vaiphei. They only sustained minor injuries.             

Police resorted to blank firing in an attempt to bring the tense situation under control.

Later around 1.30 pm the situation was brought under control.

A wooden bridge, the only lifeline connecting Haraothel village was also burnt down by the rival group during the clash.

Speaking to media persons on behalf of Senjam Chirang villages, Irungbam Ranjan, chairman National Sport University Protection Committee, said that they have already warned any form of construction (in this case piggery farm) in the disputed area as it will contaminate the Sahirok river, a water source being used by many surrounding villages.

He further said that the Meitei Youth Front South East Asia, had also served an ultimatum to the revenue department demanding a clear demarcation of the district boundary line.

Even as the ultimatum expired yesterday the department failed to take up any positive action, he added.

The crises could have been averted had the government conducted proper demarcation of district boundary, lamented Ranjan.

Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) president, Thangminlen Kipgen Haraothel said the claim made by Senjam Chirang village.that the disputed area belongs to them (Senjanm Chirang) is very unfortunate.

He pointed out that the KSO has also earlier submitted memorandum to the chief minister and to the authority concerned to bring an amicable solution over the disputed land.