Guwahati: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Central and Manipur governments, demanding immediate action to restore unrestricted movement along National and Inter-State Highways passing through Kangpokpi district.
The decision followed a joint meeting of civil society organisations (CSOs) from Kangpokpi district held at CoTU’s administrative office on Saturday, where participants unanimously resolved to press for the reopening of the crucial road corridors.
According to CoTU, vehicular movement on the highways has remained severely affected for more than a month due to the presence of what it described as unauthorised checkpoints allegedly established by Kacha Naga groups. The organisation claimed the restrictions have disrupted the transportation of essential commodities, medicines, commercial goods and the movement of the general public.
Highlighting the importance of the highway network, CoTU said Kangpokpi depends heavily on these roads for connectivity, trade and access to basic services. It maintained that the prolonged blockade has caused widespread inconvenience to residents and adversely impacted economic activities in the district.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the response of the authorities, CoTU alleged that repeated appeals to both the Centre and the state government have failed to produce any concrete action. It urged the governments to remove all unauthorised checkpoints and ensure the immediate restoration of free movement within the next 48 hours.
The organisation warned that if its demand is not met within the stipulated period, the Kuki-Zo community would be compelled to launch what it described as “appropriate and pre-emptive democratic measures” to safeguard its rights, security and interests.
CoTU further stated that any law-and-order situation arising from the continued disruption of highway movement would be the responsibility of the Manipur government and the concerned authorities, accusing them of failing to guarantee safe and unhindered travel for citizens.
Calling for urgent intervention, the organisation appealed to both the Central and Manipur governments to resolve the issue without delay and prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.