Manipur violence leaves ten dead as intelligence agencies cite drug cartel conspiracy

NEW DELHI — Fresh outbreaks of violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur have left at least 10 people dead during the first fortnight of October 2026, according to official figures.

According to intelligence agencies, the renewed unrest is driven by a conspiracy involving Myanmar-based drug cartels seeking to expand the illicit narcotics trade, noting that regional stability poses a major obstacle to cartel operations. Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh claimed via social media on October 10 that the death toll over the 15-day period reached 14.

The renewed clashes follow the expiration of the 2008 Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement between the Centre, the state government and Kuki-Zo militant groups, which lapsed without renewal on September 4, 2026. In response, security forces have established full control over the SoO camp operated by the Sinai militant group in Kangpokpi, arresting 17 unauthorized individuals and recovering 24 weapons along with explosives. Authorities are currently auditing all 14 SoO camps across the state.

The broader ethnic conflict, which initially erupted in 2023, has resulted in over 300 deaths and displaced approximately 60,000 people, Home Minister Govindas Konthouजाम informed the state assembly in September.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have assured the state government of full assistance to restore peace and strengthen security infrastructure. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh plans to establish an all-inclusive peace committee comprising representatives from all 36 communities in the state, alongside plans to set up a new medical college in the Tengnoupal district.