Kuki civil society lifts economic blockade on NH-2 after governor’s intervention

The Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs) has called off its economic blockade along National Highway-2 in Kangpokpi district, ending a protest that began at 7 a.m. on August 8. 

The decision came after the lifting of a 20-day-long communal blockade targeting Kuki-Zo commuters between Kangpokpi and Churachandpur.

The blockade was initially launched as an indefinite protest against travel restrictions imposed on the Kuki-Zo community since July 15. 

The WCKCSOs said the action was a direct result of the government’s failure to address what it described as “undemocratic and targeted restrictions” on their key route.

The committee credited the Governor of Manipur for intervening in resolving the crisis and restoring free movement. It also praised the United Naga Council (UNC) for taking a “mature stand” and upholding humanitarian values during a sensitive time.

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“Although delayed and at the cost of tremendous hardship for our people, we acknowledge the Governor’s intervention and the role of the UNC in ending the total blockade against the Kuki-Zo community,” said WCKCSOs spokesperson Thangminlen Kipgen.

The group also thanked well-wishers and the Kuki-Zo population for their solidarity, noting that women monitored much of the blockade at Kangpokpi District Headquarters.

While lifting the protest, the WCKCSOs warned that they would “never allow any organisation to dictate terms along our lifelines” and urged the community to remain alert.

Normal vehicular traffic along NH-2 is expected to resume, restoring the supply of essential goods to the affected areas.