Ukhrul, August 7: The Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs) has issued a 36-hour ultimatum demanding an immediate end to the ongoing travel restrictions imposed on Kuki-Zo commuters between Kanggui (Kangpokpi) and Songpi (Churachandpur), calling it an “uncivilized and undemocratic blockade.”
According to Thangminlen Kipgen, Spokesperson of the Working Committee Kuki CSOs, the indefinite restriction, in place since July 15, has caused immense hardship by cutting off essential supplies and worsening tensions in the region.
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After consulting stakeholders and civil society groups, the WCKCSOs alleged that radical elements are manipulating local tribal dynamics. “Certain radicalized Meitei supremacists are using the ‘Foothills Naga’ as a scapegoat to create friction between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities,” Kipgen stated.
The spokesperson named Sapamacha Jadumani of the Federation of Haomee and Th Manihar of FOCS, accusing them of “single-handedly inflaming the sentiments” of members of the Liangmei community, particularly in areas frequented by Kuki-Zo commuters.
The WCKCSOs alleged that these groups are deliberately inciting hostility to obstruct the flow of essential goods and create unnecessary travel difficulties for the Kuki-Zo people. Despite repeated appeals, the organization stated that authorities at both the district and central levels have remained silent.
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“In light of these malicious and targeted acts of ethnic discrimination, we are compelled to issue this ultimatum,” Kipgen said.
The WCKCSOs warned that if the blockade is not lifted within 36 hours, a total blockade of essential supplies along Asian Highway/National Highway-2 will begin at 7:00 AM on August 8 and will continue indefinitely. The organization stated that responsibility for any consequences will lie with Jadumani, Manihar, and the concerned state and central authorities.