KANGPOKPI: Amid the continuing economic blockade imposed on Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in Manipur, K. Lhouvum, Chief of Hengjang village in Leimakhong, Kangpokpi district, which is a Kuki village, stated that not all Kukis, Nagas and Meiteis are enemies and that ordinary people from all sides are suffering due to the prolonged conflict.
The statement came as Naga and Meitei groups continued intensifying the month-and-a-half-long blockade restricting the transportation of goods and essential supplies into Kuki-dominated regions following rising tensions between the Naga and Kuki communities.
Meanwhile, members of the Naga and Meitei communities continued their blockade protest at Namdilong along National Highway-2, and Kanto Sabal area warning transporters and traders against carrying goods to Kuki-inhabited areas.
Leaders of the Naga community repeatedly said the blockade would continue until justice is delivered for the killing of six Naga civilians.
The Naga community alleged that “Kuki terrorism” operating in the hill districts of Manipur was responsible for the deteriorating law and order situation and asserted that the agitation would continue until their demands are fulfilled.
The protesters also warned transporters and traders against supplying goods and essential commodities to Kuki-dominated areas, stating that strict action would be taken against anyone violating the blockade.
Speaking on the ongoing tensions, K. Lhouvum said the Kuki-Zo community, after reflecting on the violence over the past three years, does not view all Nagas or Meiteis as enemies.
He stated that there are many tribes and sub-tribes within the Naga and Meitei communities and maintained that not everyone is against the Kuki-Zo people.
“Especially the Christian Meiteis settled in different parts and many Naga tribes living across Manipur are also suffering because of the conflict. Not everyone is against us,” he said.
The Hengjang village chief alleged that only a few leaders with different agendas were creating trouble and divisions among the general public.
Responding to a question on whether the same situation applied within the Kuki community as well, K. Lhouvum said ordinary people in every community are simple and peace-loving and generally follow the directions of their leaders.
“The general public are simple and docile people. Whatever our leaders say, we simply follow them and often do not have the power to disobey them,” he said.
He further clarified that villagers have not disturbed students travelling to Kendriya Vidyalaya Leimakhong from any community, including Meitei, Naga or other community students, and said students would continue to be allowed safe movement.
However, he stated that other movements through the Leimakhong Chingmang area would continue to be restricted until the ongoing economic blockade is lifted.
