Archive · 3 Jan 2026
Armed Men Fire Rifles in Manipur New Year Celebrations
In Manipur, videos have gone viral showing armed men shooting assault rifles in the air to celebrate the New Year.
These incidents happened in Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi districts.
One of the men in the videos is believed to be a policeman.
Villagers were initially scared, thinking they were under attack.
Similar incidents happened in 2023, where both Meitei and Kuki communities openly displayed weapons.
In February 2025, five men were arrested for playing football while carrying assault rifles.
The open display of arms has raised questions about law and order in the state, which is currently under President's Rule.
Videos show armed men firing assault rifles in Manipur to celebrate New Year.
Incidents confirmed in Tengnoupal district, suspected in Kangpokpi district.
One man in the videos is allegedly a policeman, currently under investigation.
Villagers were initially scared, thinking they were under attack.
Similar incidents occurred in 2023, with both Meitei and Kuki communities openly displaying weapons.
- Who
- Armed men, including a suspected policeman, from Meitei and Kuki communities
- What
- Firing assault rifles in the air to celebrate New Year
- When
- New Year's celebration, with a previous incident in February 2025
- Where
- Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi districts, Manipur
- Why
- Celebration and possibly to scare villagers
- Location
- Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi districts, Manipur
- Weapons Used
- Assault rifles, AK series
- Confirmed Incident
- Tengnoupal district
- Suspected Incident
- Kangpokpi district
- Previous Incident
- February 2025, Kangpokpi district
- Previous Year Activity
- 2023, frequent open display of arms
- Communities Involved
- Meitei and Kuki