Kiphire violence erupts over Yimkhiung-Tikhir village dispute

Violence erupted in the Kiphire district of Nagaland on October 10 during the Tsonglak-Nyi Festival celebrations. The clashes between the Yimkhiung and Tikhir communities resulted in one death and one injury within the Tikhir community, alongside the burning and vandalism of houses in several areas, including Pungro town and Zaonger.

The Zaonger Mihkhung Arihako (ZMA) attributed the violence to a long-standing village dispute that remained unresolved despite customary court proceedings and a 2025 attempt at a traditional settlement. The ZMA noted that while a District Customary Court was established to adjudicate the matter based on a prior Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the final stages of the settlement were never completed.

Conversely, the Tikhir community has refuted these claims, stating that the dispute has been examined by competent authorities, including the Home Commissioner. They maintain that their right to reside in Zaonger and celebrate traditional festivals is supported by the existing MoU between the Tikhir Tribal Council and the Yimkhiung Tribal Council, rejecting allegations that they have been unlawfully expelled.