Tensions remained high in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Tuesday as a counter-economic blockade entered its third day, with Naga and Kuki-Zo civil society organisations exchanging allegations over the situation.
The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) accused Kuki groups of disrupting movement along National Highway-202 and alleged that several vehicles were stopped, belongings were seized, and some vehicles were set on fire. In a statement, the TNL claimed that around 40 commercial and private vehicles travelling under security escort were intercepted at Shangkai Kuki village and Mahadev Hill.
The organisation questioned the role of security personnel deployed for Road Opening Party (ROP) duties and urged authorities to take immediate action to restore free movement on the Imphal-Ukhrul highway. The TNL also called for an end to the blockade, citing concerns over commuter safety and essential supplies.
Meanwhile, the Working Committee of the Kuki Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Ukhrul, rejected the allegations as baseless and malicious. The committee stated that the blockade was being carried out peacefully and according to the announced guidelines.
The Kuki CSOs clarified that only an India Post vehicle carrying commercial items, including vegetables and grocery supplies, was intercepted. It claimed that the driver and official postal consignments were allowed to proceed and denied reports of passengers being forced out of vehicles or civilians being detained. The situation continues to be closely monitored as both communities maintain their respective positions amid ongoing tensions in the district.
