Imphal: Tensions in Manipur have intensified after the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, accused Naga armed groups, including the NSCN-IM, of pursuing what it described as a “balkanization” agenda that threatens peace and stability in the state.
In a statement, CoTU alleged that the groups have been allowed to operate with excessive freedom, posing a serious threat to public safety, disrupting livelihoods and undermining stability across the Northeast.
The committee further claimed that recent political developments in the state are being driven by what it termed “radicalised Tangkhul leaders” from Ukhrul. According to CoTU, these elements are attempting to trigger fresh hostilities between the Kuki and Naga communities for political purposes.
Referring to the killing of three Baptist Church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13, the organisation alleged that the incident reflected a pattern of targeted violence against the Kuki-Zo community.
CoTU maintained that the Kuki-Zo community has continued to cooperate with both Central and state security forces despite the prevailing unrest. However, it said persistent internal security challenges are hampering efforts to restore normalcy and could adversely affect the country’s broader ambitions of strengthening economic connectivity with Southeast Asia.
The organisation urged the Central and Manipur governments, along with all stakeholders, to take immediate steps to address what it described as a deteriorating security and political situation.
Earlier, CoTU had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Central and state governments demanding the restoration of unhindered movement of vehicles and essential commodities along National Highway-2. The deadline, which came into effect from midnight on June 27, was issued amid continued disruption in the transportation of food, medicines and other essential supplies.
In its statement, CoTU warned that if the free movement of essential goods is not ensured, the responsibility for any resulting consequences would rest entirely with the authorities. It also asserted that neither the committee nor any civil society organisation in Sadar Hills should be held accountable for any developments arising from the continued blockade of the highway.