Clashes between ZUF factions in Manipur's Noney spark gunfire, concerns over escalation

Clashes reported between Zeliangrong United Front factions in Manipur’s Noney district

NONEY, Manipur — Fresh gunfire was reported Saturday morning in Manipur’s Noney district following an internal clash between two factions of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF), police confirmed. The exchange occurred around 6 a.m. between Nungtek Part II and Haochong, approximately 5 kilometers northeast of Noney district headquarters. Local Meira Paibi groups and police attempted to reach the area but were unable to due to security risks, according to officials.

The incident follows a prior clash Friday afternoon in Oktan village, about 21 kilometers northeast of Noney police station. Police identified the slain leader in that confrontation as Dingtiplung Gonmei, also known as Nguiba Gonmei, who held the position of self-styled chief secretary of the ZUF-Kamson faction. Authorities have not confirmed any casualties from Saturday’s gunfire, and neither armed group has issued an official statement regarding the latest violence.

The Zeliangrong United Front operates under a tripartite Cessation of Operation (CoO) agreement with the Government of India and the Manipur state government. The peace accord and CoO pact were signed on December 27–28, 2022, in New Delhi. A Joint Monitoring Group was established under the agreement to oversee compliance with established ground rules.

Concerns have grown over potential escalation in the Noney-Haochong area following the renewed hostilities. Authorities continue to monitor the situation amid the absence of official communication from either faction.

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