IT News
Imphal, March 21:
Despite the Union Home Minister’s directive to open National Highways and ensure free movement for all citizens, the government’s failure to enforce this order has once again led to alarming consequences. While two Meitei men were forced to turn back from Kangpokpi district, another youth has gone missing in Joujangtek, Churachandpur district, raising fresh concerns over the state’s deteriorating law and order situation.
The latest missing case involves 18-year-old Luwangthem Mukesh from Keishampat, Imphal, whose last known mobile location was traced to Joujangtek, an area dominated by Kuki-Zo communities. His sudden disappearance has left his family in distress, with no information on his whereabouts. This is not an isolated case—since the ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023, several Meitei individuals who unknowingly crossed into these volatile districts have either gone missing or have been declared dead.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, Wahengbam Robinkumar (53) and Moirangthem Pomhenba (29) had a narrow escape after mistakenly entering Kangpokpi district on their way to Awang Sekmai.
They were forced to stop after spotting a “Welcome to Kangpokpi” signboard, realizing the imminent danger. Upon confirming their location with police personnel nearby, they had no choice but to turn back. It was only through the timely intervention of Sekmai Police that they were safely escorted out of the area, preventing a potentially dangerous situation.
These incidents expose the blatant failure of the government to implement the Centre’s directive on ensuring the free and safe movement of people on National Highways and all roads. Despite repeated appeals, major roads and highways continue to remain restricted, effectively creating ethnically segregated zones where movement is dictated by fear and uncertainty.
The inability to guarantee safe passage for all citizens not only violates their fundamental rights but also fuels the ongoing crisis. The persistent blockades, disappearances, and threats faced by travelers demand immediate and decisive action from both the state and central governments. Until concrete steps are taken to restore order and enforce free movement, Manipur will remain trapped in a cycle of fear, hostility, and unresolved conflict.