Hostilities have intensified in Manipur following a recent escalation in tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities. This unrest was ignited by a violent ambush that resulted in the deaths of three church leaders and a civilian on May 13. The assaults occurred in various locations, notably between Kotzin and Kotlen, as well as in Joujangtek village, situated within Noney district.

In the aftermath of these incidents, there were widespread allegations of retaliatory actions leading to a wave of abductions involving armed factions from both the Kuki and Naga groups. Reports indicate that over 38 civilians were taken captive from the districts of Kangpokpi and Senapati just hours after the ambush.

The abductees included individuals from both communities, highlighting the complex nature of the conflict. Authorities have since confirmed the release of 31 hostages, among them 12 Naga women from Konsakhul, 16 Kuki civilians from Kangpokpi, and two Salesian brothers. However, the fate of six Naga men remains uncertain as they continue to be unaccounted for.

Economic Disruption Due to Blockades

The rising violence has led to significant economic disruptions across Manipur’s hill districts, prompting the enforcement of blockades on essential highways. Following the recent ambush and abductions, Kuki Inpi Manipur declared an extensive shutdown across national highways, a move that has had immediate and severe ramifications for transport and commerce.

In retaliation, the United Naga Council (UNC) announced an inter-district economic blockade commencing on May 17. Consequently, many vehicles, including trucks and passenger buses, have found themselves stranded along National Highway-2 (NH-2), exacerbating the situation for transporters, drivers, and the travelling public.

Authorities are grappling with the logistical challenges posed by these blockades, as the economic impact is felt widely. Daily wage earners are particularly affected, with many facing hardships due to the inability to travel or conduct business as usual.

Government Calls for Peaceful Resolution

In response to the escalating tensions, Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh has urged the public to refrain from imposing further blockades and bandhs. Speaking at the inauguration of a bridge in Imphal West district, he highlighted that such disruptions primarily harm ordinary citizens.

Singh encouraged dialogue between the conflicting parties for the resolution of issues, asserting that protests driven by frustration against the government only lead to greater suffering for the general populace. He stressed the importance of mutual understanding and peaceful negotiations to address the ongoing crisis.

Public sentiment remains fraught with tension, as residents grow increasingly concerned about the deteriorating security situation and its implications for community relations in Manipur.

Joint Civil Society Protest Signals Heightened Concern

On Friday, tensions further escalated as multiple civil society organisations from both Meitei and Naga communities participated in a protest at Kanglatongbi in Imphal West district. This demonstration called for the urgent rescue of six civilians allegedly taken captive by Kuki militants, asserting that the safety of these individuals must be prioritised.

The protest, coordinated under the banner of the Joint CSOs of Manipur, condemned what attendees described as acts of “targeted aggression” against indigenous groups. A memorandum was submitted to the Governor, demanding a prompt resolution to the crisis, with an ultimatum issued regarding government accountability for the hostages’ well-being.

Demands voiced at the protest included the termination of the Suspension of Operations agreement with the Kuki National Front (P), elevated security efforts in regions known for militant activity, and the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. Community leaders labelled the incidents as “pre-planned” and expressed fears over ongoing targeted violence against vulnerable populations in the state.

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