A fierce gunfight erupted between NSCN-IM and ZUF cadres in Manipur’s Noney district near Sangji and Dollang villages on August 27, 2025, raising fears of escalating tensions.
BY PC Bureau
August 27, 2025: A fierce gunfight broke out today between cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) in Manipur’s Noney district, escalating tensions in the region. The clash, reported in the inter-village areas near Sangji and Dollang under the Khoupum police station, has raised concerns among local communities and authorities.
According to sources, the conflict erupted in the early hours of Wednesday, with both groups engaging in heavy gunfire. The exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear, but preliminary reports suggest it may be linked to territorial disputes or ongoing rivalries between the two Naga militant outfits. Both the NSCN-IM and ZUF have a history of intermittent clashes in the region, with previous incidents reported in Noney and Tamenglong districts.
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Local police and security forces, including a joint team of Manipur Police and Assam Rifles, were deployed to the area to assess the situation and restore calm. While official casualty figures are yet to be confirmed, unverified reports circulating on social media platforms indicate that the skirmish may have resulted in injuries, though no fatalities have been officially reported as of now.Civil society organizations, including the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM), have condemned the violence, expressing alarm over the impact on civilians in nearby villages. A joint statement from RNPO, VCLA, RNCM, RNLPM, RNYOM, and village authorities of Sangji, Dollang, and Longsai highlighted the endangerment of women, children, and the elderly, urging both groups to cease hostilities immediately. The organizations warned of potential mass protests if the situation persists.
The NSCN-IM and ZUF have both previously signed peace agreements with the Indian government, yet sporadic clashes continue to disrupt the fragile peace in Manipur. The latest incident follows a pattern of confrontations, with a notable gunfight on November 28, 2024, in Shangji village, where both groups exchanged accusations of provocation.
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Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and security has been tightened in Noney district to prevent further escalation. The public has been urged to avoid spreading unverified information, as it could exacerbate tensions in the region.This is a developing story, and further details are awaited as investigations continue.
