Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The Katho Katamnao Long (KKL), a leading youth body representing the Tangkhul community in Manipur’s Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, has announced an indefinite blockade on vehicular movement along highways falling within its jurisdiction, citing alleged excesses by personnel of the 40th Assam Rifles.
The decision follows an incident on Sunday during protests against the establishment of a temporary Assam Rifles post at New Haven. Local organisations have alleged that the security installation was set up without obtaining prior approval from the concerned village authorities.
In a statement issued by KKL Vice President Shanching Yanao, the organisation accused Assam Rifles personnel of using force against demonstrators at Finch Corner, Shokvao and New Haven. The statement claimed that security personnel resorted to baton charges and firing while dispersing the protesters.
According to KKL, the confrontation left several people injured, including the organisation’s president and more than 20 women. Those injured were subsequently shifted to Ukhrul District Hospital for treatment.
The youth body has sought the support of apex civil society organisations such as the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL), urging them to stand with the affected individuals and back legal action against those responsible for the alleged use of force.
KKL stated that the highway blockade will continue until its demands are addressed. These include a public apology from the Assam Rifles, the removal of the temporary post from New Haven, and disciplinary action against the personnel allegedly involved in the incident.
However, the organisation clarified that emergency medical services, essential public services and accredited media personnel would be exempt from the restrictions to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of critical services.
As of Monday, no official statement had been issued by the Assam Rifles regarding the allegations levelled by the organisation.