Three more houses were set on fire at Litan Sareikhong village on February 12, despite intensified efforts by state authorities to contain the violence by deploying additional security forces in the area.
According to sources, the arson incident was followed by gunfire reportedly coming from the opposite side of the village. However, no injuries have been reported so far.
Meanwhile, women from Tangkhul villages staged a protest condemning the continued violence despite the presence of Central security forces. They demanded the immediate withdrawal of Central forces from Litan Sareikhong.
The protesting women alleged that “despite heavy security deployment, villagers continue to face repeated attacks involving sophisticated weapons.” They said they could no longer rely on the Central forces for their safety and insisted on their removal.
According to the protesters, suspected armed militants launched an attack on Litan Sareikhong on February 12, which reportedly lasted nearly two hours. They further alleged that Central security personnel were shielding the militants.
The women also claimed that militants dressed in combat attire were seen moving freely with advanced weapons in Mongkot Chepu village. At the same time, Tangkhul Naga residents of Litan Sareikhong were allegedly prevented from entering their homes and were asked to vacate the area.
Sources stated that frequent gun attacks by suspected armed militants targeting the Tangkhul Naga community have continued despite the deployment of security forces.
