These prominent Kuki organizations, representing former militant groups, made the decision to withdraw the blockade, aiming to promote harmony and ease tensions in the region.
In a significant development aimed at restoring peace and harmony in Manipur, the United Peoples' Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO), two prominent Kuki umbrella organizations, have officially withdrawn the roadblocks on National Highway 2 in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. This decision comes in response to an appeal made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in the state.
The UPF and KNO, representing former militant groups that have signed suspension of operations pacts with the government, issued a joint statement announcing the lifting of the blockade with immediate effect. The organizations acknowledged the home minister's commitment to restoring peace and harmony and stated that his intervention played a pivotal role in their decision.
It should be noted that while the roadblocks imposed by the UPF and KNO have been lifted, the Kuki civil society group Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), which had announced a roadblock on NH-2 two months ago, has not yet officially withdrawn its agitation.
Manipur, a northeastern state of India, is connected by two national highways, NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur) and NH-37 (Imphal-Jiribam). The NH-2 had been blocked by Kuki organizations since the outbreak of violence on May 3. The highway was temporarily opened following Amit Shah's visit to the state in late May.
The decision to lift the blockade follows a recent meeting between the UPF, KNO, and other Kuki groups with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati. Sources close to the development revealed that the decision was made after extensive consultations with civil society organizations, village chiefs, and women leaders.
Ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur has resulted in more than 100 casualties. Meiteis constitute approximately 53 percent of Manipur's population and predominantly reside in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, the tribal communities, account for around 40 percent and primarily inhabit the hill districts.
The UPF and KNO expressed their appreciation for the deployment of central forces in the vulnerable villages along the bordering and foothill areas, as assured by the home minister. They stated that once the deployment is complete, their "volunteers" will be withdrawn from those areas to contribute to restoring peace and tranquility.
Furthermore, the organizations appealed to all peace-loving organizations and citizens in Manipur to reciprocate their gesture and take steps towards peace and communal harmony in the state.