The situation is once again worsening in Manipur. Due to the long-term economic blockade by Naga groups after the killing of 6 civilians in the state, the authorities have had to tighten security arrangements on National Highway-2 (NH-2). This protest started after the murder of six people who were allegedly kidnapped.
In view of this protest, Imphal West authorities on Thursday issued orders to deploy police teams and Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF) personnel on special duty to maintain law and order in Namduilong located on NH-2. This is where the economic blockade is mainly being carried out.
Demand for justice for Naga people
The protesters are demanding justice for the six Liangmai Naga men, whose mutilated bodies were recovered after being held hostage for nearly a month. The victims were allegedly abducted by armed Kuki militants on May 13 and later murdered. Police is investigating this claim.
The protesters are also demanding the immediate arrest of the killers of those killed and are also condemning the alleged confessional statements given by people from the Kuki community in connection with the murders.
Protestors blocking the movement of vehicles
Police officials said around 40 local Liangmai Naga volunteers, along with Meitei women, were monitoring the movement of vehicles at Namduilong crossing and stopping the movement of goods and other essential items from Imphal to Kangpokpi district. However, vehicles belonging to security forces and emergency services have been exempted from these restrictions. Meanwhile, a limited number of some inter-state and inter-district passenger vehicles are also plying on this route.
This protest by Naga organizations started on June 5 last month and entered its 28th day on Thursday, July 2. Police said those setting up the blockade were gathering volunteers and supporters because they feared authorities might try to clear the highway.
On the other hand, people of the Kuki-Jo community have been holding a counter-protest in Kangpokpi district since June 30, demanding the resumption of traffic on this vital inter-state road.
Protestors set car on fire in Imphal
In another incident, around 1.30 am on Thursday, protesters set fire to a vehicle carrying telecom equipment in Imphal East. The fire was set when it was falsely claimed that the vehicle was being used to transport illegal goods. According to the police, the vehicle was going towards Kangpokpi district, but was stopped by security personnel in Imphal East and in view of the prevailing law and order situation there, it was directed to return to Imphal.
However, while returning, a group of protesters stopped the vehicle in Imphal East. The protesters alleged that the vehicle was carrying banned items like tobacco products and other narcotics, and then set the vehicle on fire. Policemen immediately reached the spot and brought the situation under control. However, by then the vehicle had been damaged.
A case has been registered regarding this incident and investigation is going on to identify the people involved in the arson. There is also tension on the highway corridor, so officials are constantly monitoring the situation in the affected areas.
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