Kuki groups threaten to seal Manipur districts over government highway orders

Imphal: Manipur's government initiative to enhance security along two pivotal highways faces opposition from civil society groups of the Kuki tribes.

The state's Chief Secretary, Vineet Joshi, declared the opening of these highways "for use by all," intending to reinforce security by deploying more forces along these routes.

However, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) from the Kuki community has decided to seal the entire Churachandpur district.

This action aims to prevent the state government from deploying additional forces and opening the routes due to apprehensions of potential disruptions during the Christmas season. The ITLF cited intelligence reports indicating a perceived threat, prompting their decision to seal the district's borders with Churachandpur and Bishnupur.

The statement from ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong detailed restrictions, stating that from December 23 to January 5, non-tribals within the district are prohibited from leaving, while those outside the district are barred from entering. Simultaneously, reports suggest another Kuki group in Kangpokpi district, bordering Churachandpur and Imphal valley, has also announced a district-wide lockdown.

The past months witnessed unrest following clashes between the Kuki tribes and Meiteis, resulting from the latter's demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status. Approximately 180 casualties and numerous internal displacements occurred during the violence.

The Kuki tribes have accused Manipur Police of partiality in managing the conflicts.

The state government's attempts to deploy police in Kuki-dominated hill districts, especially in towns like Moreh near Myanmar, Churachandpur, and Kangpokpi, faced strong opposition.

The ITLF's move to resist the government's plans for increased security and highway openings could escalate tensions in Manipur, notably with Christmas approaching. The state previously experienced subdued festivals, including Ningol Chakouba and Diwali, due to prevalent tensions and restrictions.

Responding to the ITLF's statement, a senior police officer labelled the action as illegal, emphasising that no group holds the authority to restrict movement unless legally mandated. The officer expressed concern over normalcy being hindered by such groups, impacting commercial activities during festivals.

The government's directive aimed at ensuring safe passage along the Imphal-Mao and Imphal-Churachandpur highways from Saturday has not received a response regarding the ITLF's threat. Notably, IPS officers Nishit Kumar Ujjwal and K Kabib are to lead additional security forces along these routes, as stated by the Chief Secretary.