The situation in Manipur has worsened again: 200 Kuki protesters have reached the buffer zone to protest the economic blockade, deepening the ration and medicine crisis.

Manipur once again seems to be burning in the fire of unrest. The situation at the border of Imphal West and Kangpokpi district turned explosive when around 200 protesters from the Kuki community took to the streets to protest against the ‘economic blockade’ imposed by Naga organisations. Angered by the increasing shortage of essential commodities, ration and life-saving medicines, the protesters tried to march towards the ‘buffer zone’ created by the security forces, causing huge tension in the area.

Controversy and blockade arising out of murder

This whole uproar started after the tragic murder of 6 Naga civilians. Naga organizations allege that after being abducted from Lelon Vaifei, these civilians were handed over to the Kuki National Front (KNF-P) militants, who later killed them. In protest against this incident, United Naga Council (UNC), Naga People’s Organization (NPO) and All Naga Students Association (ANSAM) have imposed an indefinite economic blockade on National Highway-2. Naga groups have made it clear that the blockade will continue until action is taken against the culprits and their demands are not met.

Communities came face to face, surrounded by security forces

The economic blockade is directly hitting residents of Kangpokpi district, where essential supplies have almost come to a complete halt. In protest against this, on Tuesday, a large number of Kuki protesters from Motbung and Gamgifai areas marched towards Kanglatongbi area. However, they were stopped by security forces already prepared at the sensitive border. Several protesters were injured in similar clashes last week, highlighting the sensitivity of the area.

Ultimatum is over, what next?

‘Committee on Tribal Unity’ (CoTU), the apex body of Kuki-Jo organizations, had given an ultimatum of 48 hours to the Central and State Governments, which has now expired. Their main demand is to ensure smooth movement of goods by opening highways. On the other hand, Naga students and women organizations have warned that they will take a strict stand against those who violate the blockade. The government and administration now face a big challenge to end this tight standoff between the two communities, because normal life has become completely disrupted due to shortage of ration and medicines.