Manipur Tense as Kuki Groups Defy Free Movement Order; 1 Killed, Several Injured in Violence on Highways

Ukhrul, Mar 8: Defying Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive to restore free movement across all roads in Manipur starting March 8, Kuki groups have enforced blockades on National Highways, sparking violent clashes and raising serious concerns over law and order in the state. The situation turned violent at Kangpokpi, where Kuki protestors set a Rapid Action Force (RAF) mini bus on fire, pelted stones at vehicles, and obstructed Manipur State Transport (MST) buses. Security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the mob, resulting in one casualty, identified as Lalgouthang Singsit of Keithelmanbi, and at least 50 injuries, some critically wounded. The highway blockade continues to paralyse movement in the NH-2.

Following the government’s announcement, authorities flagged off state bus and helicopter services from Imphal International Airport under tight security arrangements. However, soon after services began, Kuki protestors took to the streets at Motbung, Gampiphai, and Kangpokpi, using logs, stones, and burning tyres to block National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur Road). Eyewitnesses reported that some protestors hurled stones from hilltops, targeting vehicles and security personnel. On National Highway-102 (Imphal-Moreh Road), a large group of Kuki women staged a blockade at Sinam village, Tengnoupal district, further challenging the government’s efforts to restore free movement. Adding to the crisis, an armed Kuki militant group has issued a direct warning against the Centre’s directive, stating that free movement will not be restored until their demand for a Separate Administration or Union Territory is met. In a viral video, militants wielding AK rifles, G-3, and G-4 assault weapons identified themselves as members of Village Volunteer Eastern Zone and warned of serious repercussions for anyone defying their stance.

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Meanwhile, the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) Manipur attempted a Peace Expedition to Hill Areas, advocating for free movement across Manipur on Saturday. However, the rally faced multiple roadblocks from security personnel along National Highway-2 in the wake of highway blockades by Kuki protestors. Initially planned to start at Kangla’s Western Gate, the march was intercepted at Kabow Leikai. Undeterred, the participants proceeded but were blocked again at Sekmai Bazar and Pangaltabi Oil Pump, where security forces, including RAF units, prevented their movement toward Senapati. Clashes between security personnel and rally participants followed, with verbal confrontations intensifying. FOCS leaders accused the government of failing to enforce Amit Shah’s directive uniformly, alleging that some regions continue to face movement restrictions despite the official order.

Addressing the media late Saturday afternoon, FOCS President Th. Manihar declared the Peace Expedition a success despite roadblocks. He accused the Central Government of indecisiveness and failure to impose President’s rule effectively. Manihar also announced that FOCS will boycott the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) meeting on March 11, stating that participation will only happen if the Government of India takes firm and long-term decisions on the Manipur crisis. Highlighting the ongoing surrender of looted weapons, Manihar claimed that over 4,000 arms had been surrendered, primarily from the valley areas, while only locally made or unusable weapons were returned from hill districts like Churachandpur and Kangpokpi, in defiance of government orders.

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He further cautioned that Kuki militants might exploit the situation to launch attacks on valley areas, worsening the already fragile security scenario.

With blockades persisting, violence escalating, and militant threats emerging, serious concerns arise over the Centre’s ability to restore order in Manipur. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether security forces can regain control or if the state will descend into further unrest. Security forces remain on high alert, closely monitoring key routes to prevent further escalations.

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