Manipur villagers block relocation of UNLF-P camp

Imphal: Villagers in Manipur stalled the closure of a UNLF-P camp in Nongshum on Saturday. Protesters blocked the exit, stopping cadres from leaving the site after the outfit's Military Affairs Committee ordered a move. Local families demand the militants stay put to maintain safety in the Imphal East district.

Residents worry that pulling these fighters out creates a security vacuum. They fear nearby Kuki militant groups will exploit the gap to launch attacks. The villagers view the camp as a necessary buffer for vulnerable areas like Pukhao and Uyumpok. One protester stated, "The presence of the UNLF-P camp has played a significant role in maintaining security."

This standoff follows a long history of local pushback. Back in April, representatives from 28 villages met Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh to demand the camp remain open. The current tension arises despite peace talks between the group, the state, and the Indian government. Authorities recently discussed camp logistics in New Delhi, but locals remain defiant. They warned that any move will hurt the security of Meitei-inhabited areas.