Imphal

Tension gripped parts of Manipur on Tuesday after protesters from two tribal communities clashed along the border areas of Senapati district and neighbouring Kangpokpi district, officials said.

According to authorities, the unrest began when police moved to remove a road blockade erected by Naga volunteers enforcing a three-day shutdown called by the United Naga Council. The shutdown was announced in protest against the killing of two persons in Ukhrul district on April 18.

Officials said the situation escalated after villagers from Changoubung became involved, resulting in stone-pelting between the two groups.

An official stated that a few rounds of gunfire were heard during the disturbance, though it was not immediately clear who fired the shots. No casualties were reported in the initial accounts.

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The shutdown, which began at midnight on April 20, disrupted normal life across Naga-dominated areas including Ukhrul, Kamjong, Senapati, Noney and Tamenglong.