Several civil society organizations of the Kuki-Zo community, including Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KISH) and the Kuki Women Union–Sadar Hills (KWU-SH), submitted a memorandum to the Superintendent of Police in Kangpokpi District, demanding the immediate lifting of a blockade imposed by Liangmei Naga groups on the Churachandpur-Kangpokpi route. They described the blockade as a deliberate disruption of the critical lifeline for Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, warning that continued obstruction could incite significant public unrest in the already tense region. The memorandum called for decisive action from district authorities within 48 hours to ensure free movement along this essential corridor.
The document highlighted that since ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023, the roads in Liangmei-inhabited areas have been the only means of connection for the geographically isolated Kuki-Zo communities. The organizations declared that any blockade constitutes a threat to their community’s survival and dignity. They accused certain Liangmei Naga groups of manipulating the ongoing ethnic conflict for hostile agendas against the Kuki-Zo community.
Citing specific incidents such as the January 8 bombing of Kharam Vaiphei village and travel restrictions at Ireng Naga village, the memorandum indicated these actions were intended to escalate tensions. The Kuki-Zo groups expressed concern over unverified allegations that painted Kuki-Zo village volunteers as insurgents, which they claimed have encouraged armed groups to perpetrate violence against civilians. The memorandum deemed the blockade as both inhumane and unlawful, warning that inaction would likely provoke public outrage, with the responsibility for any resulting consequences resting on the authorities for their failure to address the situation promptly. This submission marks a significant coordinated protest by Kuki-Zo organizations against road blockades amidst Manipur’s ongoing ethnic crisis.
