14 February 2026 — Renewed and escalating ethnic clashes in India’s Manipur State are causing profound fear among Myanmar refugees sheltering near the India–Myanmar border.
The latest wave of violence, which began on 7 February and intensified on 11 February, involves widespread arson and armed confrontation. Police reports indicate that at least 70 houses have been deliberately burned since the unrest started, with more homes set ablaze on 12 February. As the conflict spreads to surrounding villages, many residents have been forced to abandon their homes.
For Myanmar refugees living in proximity to the affected zones, safety concerns are now critical. Many had fled armed conflict in Myanmar only to face renewed insecurity in their temporary refuge.
According to local sources cited by Zalen News, refugees are gripped by fear as the violence persists. One displaced Myanmar woman reported that the ongoing burning of houses has eroded any sense of safety.
While some refugees have fled a second time, others are afraid to sleep at night. She emphasized the heightened vulnerability of the elderly, pregnant women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Local authorities have announced they are monitoring the situation and providing relief assistance to those impacted. However, Myanmar refugees remain deeply anxious, as no immediate or clear resolution to halt the violence has yet been declared.
The instability has created further uncertainty for families who sought temporary safety from conflict in Myanmar, casting doubt on their security and future in Manipur. – Reporting by Ben
