Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) based in Kangpokpi issued a final warning to the Manipur government this week. They demand an immediate end to what they call an inhumane and selective blockade targeting the Kuki-Zo community. Tribal leaders claim groups from the Liangmai and Tangkhul communities are stopping and harassing Kuki-Zo travelers, vehicles, and medical supply runs. These disruptions persist even though National Highways are officially open for traffic.
CoTU insists their community has avoided imposing counter-blockades throughout the ongoing conflict. They pointed to a state order from August 28 that bans road blockades and mandates prosecution for offenders. The group is pushing for the government to enforce this rule immediately and without bias. If authorities fail to act, the Kuki-Zo will restrict movement for Tangkhul and Liangmai people in areas they control.
The organization also renewed demands for justice regarding civilian deaths. They specifically accused Tangkhul-led factions of the NSCN and ZUF-K of killing pastors, women, and an infant. The group also mentioned the deaths of six Liangmai people in their statement. CoTU holds the administration accountable for the current instability.
"Responsibility for any escalation and its consequences resulting from the Government’s inaction will lie entirely with the Government of Manipur and those groups that continue the communal blockade," the committee said in its statement. The situation remains volatile as tensions simmer over road access across the region.
Comments