One person was killed and another injured when a violent clash erupted between members of the Tikhir and Yimkhiung communities on Saturday in Kiphire district. The confrontation, which took place in the Kiusam area and the town of Pungro, left several houses reportedly destroyed or set on fire.
In response, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The orders, issued by District Magistrate Kiphire Temsuwati Longkumer, covered the Pungro sub‑division—excluding Khongsa block but including Kiusam circle—and were intended to prevent further escalation. They banned gatherings of five or more people that could disturb public tranquillity, prohibited the carrying of firearms, weapons and sharp‑edged implements, and barred rallies, processions and any activity likely to provoke confrontation. Statements or messages that might incite violence were also forbidden. The orders remain in force until modified, extended or rescinded by the competent authority, and violations would be subject to legal action.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton expressed concern over the violence and urged both communities to maintain calm and exercise restraint. In a press release, he acknowledged the prohibitory orders and called on all parties to cooperate with law‑enforcement agencies, emphasizing that differences could be resolved only through peaceful dialogue.
The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) and the United Sangtam Likhüm Pümji (USLP) also appealed for peace. ENPO president Chingmak Chang condemned the violence, urging tribes and citizens to promote harmony and respect the Christian spirit of love. USLP joint secretary A. Island Peace Yangthsaba warned against creating law‑and‑order problems and urged maximum restraint, reminding that violations would carry consequences.
