Churachandpur district in Manipur remains tense as fresh violence erupts, resulting in the death of one individual. The unrest intensified after miscreants assaulted a leader of a Hmar tribal organization on Monday, prompting further clashes between the Hmar and Zomi communities.
Amid the volatile situation, miscreants have targeted local media houses, drawing strong condemnation from the press community. In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, editors of Churachandpur-based newspapers decried the destruction of the signboard of *Zogam Today* and reported that *Eimi Times* newspaper agents were obstructed from carrying out their duties.
The statement demanded a formal apology from the perpetrators and urged all individuals to refrain from disrupting or harassing media personnel, newspaper hawkers, and reporters. “We stand in solidarity with *Zogam Today* and call upon authorities to ensure the safety and security of media professionals. A free press must be upheld without fear or intimidation,” the statement read.
The district remains under prohibitory orders, and security forces have conducted flag marches in an effort to restore order. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as tensions between the two communities persist.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Zomi Students' Federation announced an indefinite emergency shutdown in the district starting Wednesday. The federation stated that all normal activities, including schools, colleges, shops, and business establishments, would remain suspended until the situation stabilizes. Residents have been urged to remain indoors for their safety.
Meanwhile, the district magistrate issued a second public notice on Tuesday, appealing for peace and harmony. “The ongoing conflict has caused significant distress and suffering on both sides. There is an urgent need to restore peace and maintain law and order in the district,” the notice stated. Community leaders and individuals were urged to refrain from further violence and work towards reconciliation.
Authorities continue to assess the situation, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to restore stability in Churachandpur.
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