IT News
Imphal, March 9:
The situation in violence-hit Kangpokpi district remained tense on Sunday following a clash between Kuki-Zo protestors and security forces enforcing free movement along Manipur’s national highways. The unrest comes amid an indefinite shutdown called by Kuki-Zo groups opposing Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive to allow unrestricted movement across the state.
Normal life was disrupted in Kuki-dominated areas as security forces launched a crackdown on demonstrators blocking roads. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) extended support to the shutdown, urging people to adhere to it in solidarity. “We respect everyone who came out to protest yesterday,” ITLF stated.
Security forces have been reinforced in Gamgiphai and other sensitive areas along NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur Road) to maintain law and order. According to police, 27 security personnel sustained injuries when protesters pelted stones, set up road barricades, and set tyres on fire. Police reported incidents of firing from within the protesting crowd, prompting retaliation from security forces. In the skirmish, 16 protesters were injured, and one succumbed to injuries.
Sources confirmed that over 40 individuals, including women and police personnel, were injured in Saturday’s clashes. The violence erupted after police fired tear gas shells to disperse demonstrators opposing the free movement policy.
Authorities also linked the unrest to a peace march organized by the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS), a Meitei organization. The march, consisting of over 10 vehicles, was stopped by security forces at Sekmai before reaching Kangpokpi, citing lack of administrative permission. Security sources indicated that the march’s attempt to enter Kuki-Zo areas triggered strong opposition from local groups.
The ITLF accused the government of favoring the Meitei community, stating that the free movement directive disregards the concerns of the Kuki-Zo people. “The Government of India’s decision to allow the movement of Meiteis through Kuki-Zo areas led to agitation and protests in Kangpokpi,” the ITLF said.
