Imphal: Armed persons suspected to be Kuki militants burnt the residence of K Ranjit Congress MLA at Serou, Kakching district early Sunday.

Serou and surrounding Meitei villages which had been continuously attacked by armed Kuki persons using sniper and sophisticated weapons were now completely abandoned and most people were taking refuge near Sugnu, Kakching and other places in Thoubal district.

Y Khemchandra, Minister and some other MLAs had been camping in the area since Saturday to help in restoring peace and normalcy. Massive combing operations were conducted following the attack on the residence of the MLA.

Since May 3 last when the crisis began in Churachandpur district, violent clashes between two communities have affected normal lives in the state. 

The curfew will be relaxed in some districts from 5 am to 5 pm. The Internet remained suspended since May 3 last.

(With UNI inputs)