UKHRUL: The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) has condemned the blockade of NH-202, the Imphal–Ukhrul Road, as a “direct challenge to the entire community” and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the state government for a clear assurance of public safety for travelers.
Expressing strong resentment to the continued disturbance and blockade, the TKS stated that such an act is completely unacceptable and is viewed as a direct challenge to the entire community whose survival and daily life depend on it. The student body also served a 24-hour ultimatum to the state government to immediately provide a clear, credible assurance, of public safety for all travelers along the highway.
Moreover, the TKS has sought a clear stand from their elected leaders to clarify their positions and take immediate steps to ensure community security, noting that public inaction is unacceptable at this critical time.
“TKS would also like to remind our three elected representatives to make their stand clear and take immediate steps in safeguarding the lives and security of our people. Silence or inaction at this critical juncture will not be accepted by the public,” the apex Tangkhul student body said.
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Criticizing the recent kidnapping of 21 passengers on the route, which reportedly occurred in front of central security forces, the TKS stated that the incident has severely shaken public confidence and created mistrust towards the security forces responsible for maintaining law and order.
The Imphal-Ukhrul road serves over two lakh people, including the Tangkhul community and other inhabitants, and remains the only lifeline in the area, it stated, adding that the blockade has severely affected daily commuters, students, patients, and traders who rely on it for essential needs.
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Further, the student body questions how the community can suffer due to the aggression of “immigrants allowed to stay for humanitarian reasons,” stressing that compassion should not compromise their safety. TKS demands the government ensure safe passage for civilians, warning that failure to do so will compel the community to take action to protect their rights.
Furthermore, the TKS urges the public to remain alert and prepare for collective action to defend their rights and restore safety along NH-202.