Kangpokpi, Manipur: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has announced an emergency indefinite bandh along National Highway-2 (NH-2) and National Highway-37 (NH-37) starting from 4 pm on Sunday. The organization alleged partisan and selective security operations in the Leimakhong-Kangchup area amid ongoing tensions involving Kuki and Kaccha Naga communities.
CoTU expressed concern over what it described as biased actions by security forces and called for impartial law enforcement. The group also raised issues related to recent killings, attacks on villages, destruction of homes, and displacement of civilians. While enforcing the bandh, CoTU exempted ambulances, medical emergencies, and humanitarian relief activities from the shutdown.
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Key Facts
- Organization: Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU)
- Announcement: Emergency indefinite bandh
- Affected Routes: National Highway-2 (NH-2) and National Highway-37 (NH-37)
- Effective From: 4 pm, Sunday
- Location: Leimakhong-Kangchup area, Manipur
- Primary Concern: Alleged selective and partisan security operations
- Demands: Impartial security measures, independent investigation, protection of civilians
- Exemptions: Ambulances, medical emergencies, humanitarian relief services
CoTU Announces Highway Shutdown
The Committee on Tribal Unity announced an indefinite bandh on two key highways in Manipur as a mark of protest against what it described as unfair and selective security operations.
According to a statement issued by its Media Cell, the organization believes authorities have failed to ensure equal protection and impartial enforcement of law and order in the affected areas.
Concerns Over Security Operations
CoTU criticized the conduct of security forces in the Leimakhong-Kangchup region. The organization claimed that any perception of bias can deepen existing tensions and reduce public confidence in institutions responsible for maintaining peace.
Furthermore, the group urged authorities to take immediate corrective measures and ensure that security operations remain neutral and transparent.
Reference to Recent Violence
The organization also referred to the recent deaths of three Christian pastors and twelve Kuki villagers. CoTU stated that the incidents have caused widespread grief, fear, and insecurity among members of the Kuki-Zo community.
In addition, the group cited reports of attacks on villages, destruction of residential properties, and displacement of civilians in conflict-affected areas.
Demands Placed Before the Government
CoTU called upon the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Government of India to take urgent action to restore public confidence and prevent further violence.
The organization demanded:
- Impartial security operations across affected areas
- Protection for vulnerable villages and civilians
- An independent investigation into recent killings
- Prevention of further attacks and displacement
- Accountability for any alleged lapses by security personnel
Moreover, CoTU requested a transparent and time-bound investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible for violent incidents.
Bandh to Continue Until Further Notice
As part of its protest, CoTU declared that the highway shutdown would continue indefinitely until authorities address its concerns.
However, the organization clarified that essential humanitarian services would not face disruptions. Ambulances, emergency medical services, and relief operations will continue to function during the bandh period.
Appeal for Peace and Restraint
Despite announcing the protest, CoTU appealed to residents to maintain peace, discipline, and restraint. The organization urged the public to avoid actions that could escalate tensions or create further instability.
Additionally, CoTU reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights, security, and dignity of the Kuki-Zo people while seeking peaceful and lawful solutions to the ongoing crisis.
Importance of Manipur and Northeast India
Manipur occupies a strategic position in Northeast India and serves as an important gateway connecting the region with Southeast Asia. Therefore, stability and peaceful coexistence in the state are crucial for regional development, connectivity, trade, and social harmony across Northeast India.
Question & Answer Section
What happened in Manipur?
The Committee on Tribal Unity announced an indefinite bandh on NH-2 and NH-37, citing concerns over alleged selective security operations.
When did the bandh begin?
The bandh came into effect from 4 pm on Sunday and will continue until further notice.
Why did CoTU call the bandh?
The organization alleged biased security operations and demanded justice, protection for civilians, and impartial law enforcement.
Which highways are affected?
National Highway-2 (NH-2) and National Highway-37 (NH-37) are affected by the shutdown.
Are emergency services exempted?
Yes. Ambulances, medical emergencies, and humanitarian relief activities are exempt from the bandh.
What are CoTU’s key demands?
The group seeks impartial security operations, an independent investigation into recent killings, protection for vulnerable communities, and accountability for any alleged security lapses.
