Manipur, characterized by its diverse ethnic composition including communities like the Kuki, Naga, and Meitei, has been a hotspot for insurgency movements seeking greater political recognition and territorial autonomy. The Kuki community, in particular, has historically been associated with armed groups advocating for their rights within the framework of Manipur’s statehood and governance. The ambush in Jiribam reflects the intersection of these socio-political dynamics with broader security challenges faced by the region.