Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Security forces stopped a group of Kuki protesters from reaching Kanto Sabal village on July 2. The crowd marched from Leimakhong to protest a blockade on National Highway-2. Army troops from the 57 Mountain Division and Manipur Police blocked the path. No violence occurred during the standoff.
The march targeted the boundary between Kangpokpi and Imphal West districts. Security personnel intercepted the demonstrators at a temporary outpost. The group dispersed shortly after the intervention. This marks the second time this week that forces have halted such a march. They previously stopped a group at Gamgiphai to prevent movement toward Namdilong.
Tensions remain high over a supply line blockade. Naga groups started the agitation to demand justice for six civilians kidnapped and killed in Leilon on May 13. The Committee on Tribal Unity issued a 48-hour ultimatum, stating they need immediate action to ensure the "unhindered movement of essential commodities, medicines and daily necessities along national and inter-state highways passing through Kangpokpi district."
The Naga People's Organisation and local tribal unions plan to keep the pressure on. They intend to intensify the current agitation. Supplies to the valley and hill districts remain choked. Officials have deployed extra police and central forces across the region to keep the peace.
Comments