The economic blockade imposed by members of the Liangmai Naga community along National Highway-2 at Namdilong in Imphal West district continued for the eighth consecutive day today, disrupting the movement of goods and intensifying pressure on the authorities to address growing public outrage over the killing of six Liangmai Naga men.
The blockade, spearheaded by the Koubru Range Liangmai Women Union since June 5, was launched in protest against the abduction and subsequent killing of six Liangmai Nagas who went missing on May 13. The recovery of their mortal remains earlier this week has triggered widespread anger across Naga-inhabited areas and renewed demands for justice.
At Namdilong, a strategic point along the Imphal-Dimapur highway, local volunteers maintained vigil throughout the day, monitoring vehicular movement and restricting the passage of goods-laden vehicles heading towards Gamgiphai and Kangpokpi. Around 15 to 20 volunteers were stationed at the site, allowing only limited movement of vehicles while enforcing the blockade on commercial transportation.
Although private vehicles, security force convoys and emergency service vehicles were permitted to pass, the flow of essential commodities and other goods along one of Manipur’s most vital lifelines remained severely affected.
The blockade comes amid escalating tensions between Naga and Kuki communities following a series of violent incidents reported on May 13. The killing of three Kuki/Thadou individuals and subsequent abduction cases involving members of both communities had already heightened tensions in the region. The discovery of the bodies of the six missing Liangmai Naga men has further deepened mistrust and anger within the Naga community.
Civil society organisations and Naga bodies have condemned the killings and demanded swift action against those responsible. Protesters have maintained that the blockade will continue as a mark of protest and to press for justice for the victims.
With no immediate breakthrough reported, concerns are mounting over the prolonged disruption of transport along NH-2, a critical supply route connecting Manipur with Nagaland and the rest of the country. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely amid fears that the incident could further strain relations between the two communities.
