Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: A counter-economic blockade on National Highway-202 by the Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs)-Ukhrul has triggered severe unrest in Manipur. The protest began at midnight on July 26. The committee claims it aims to protest shortages of essential goods in Kuki-Zo villages. They demand government intervention to secure supply lines. Meanwhile, essential movement remains heavily restricted.
The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) reports that Kuki groups intercepted over 40 vehicles near Shangkai Kuki village and Mahadev Hill on July 27. Witnesses claim the vehicles were under security escort. Assailants reportedly looted cash, clothes, and groceries. Some items were set on fire. The TNL accused Kuki militants under the Suspension of Operations agreement of orchestrating the chaos. The group remains outraged by the apparent inaction of security forces. One official statement from the TNL read: "Had the Kukis approached the Nagas for help to alleviate their hunger, we would have willingly offered assistance on humanitarian grounds as part of our shared Christian community."
Postal services in the district are now suspended indefinitely. A mail van was intercepted near Shangkai, resulting in the destruction of 37 mail bags. The Ukhrul Postmaster confirmed 32 bags were lost at the Ukhrul office alone. Four bags were lost at the Somdal office and one at the Kamjong office. The bags contained passports, ATM cards, and academic certificates. Litan Police Station has registered an FIR regarding the destruction of this property.
The WCKCSOs-Ukhrul denies these accounts. They claim they only stopped an India Post truck carrying prohibited commercial goods. They insist the driver and postal consignments were allowed to pass. The committee also rejected accusations that they kidnapped bank employee Kharaingam Jaojo. They call such claims malicious misinformation. The committee continues to allow medical, passenger, and security vehicles through, provided they undergo inspection. Government and private institutions in 14 affected Kuki-Zo villages remain closed.
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