Manipur government holds talks with UNC; Naga body says economic blockade will continue

The Manipur government on Monday, August 10, held talks with the United Naga Council (UNC) at Senapati district headquarters in an attempt to address issues concerning the Naga community and explore ways to restore peace in the state.
 

The government described the first round of discussions as “fruitful” and an “ice-breaking” moment, but the UNC reiterated that its ongoing economic blockade along the national highways would continue until its four-point charter of demands is fulfilled.
 

The government delegation was led by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and Home Minister K. Govindas and included MLAs Leishiyo Keishing, Th. Radheshyam, Sheikh Noorul Hassan, Awangbow Newmai, T. Robindro, Khashim Vashum and P. Brojen.
 

Speaking after the meeting, Manipur government spokesperson Thokchom Radheshyam said the talks were productive and marked the beginning of a process of dialogue.

 

He said the discussions would continue in the coming days to address the issues raised by the Naga community and work towards restoring peace in the state.
 

“This is only the first round of talks. The talks have just started and results will come after a series of discussions,” Radheshyam said.
 

However, UNC president Ng Lorho said the organisation had made it clear during the meeting that the blockade would not be withdrawn until its demands were met.
 

He said the UNC discussed with the ministers and MLAs ways to restore peace but also reiterated its commitment to its four-point charter of demands.
 

“The government appealed and requested to end the blockade. However, we will continue until our demands are not met,” Lorho said.

He also said the UNC wanted future rounds of talks to be held in Senapati rather than Imphal.
 

The economic blockade, which has been in place since May, has severely affected the movement of essential commodities along the national highways, leading to shortages and a rise in prices of edible items across Manipur.
 

The blockade was imposed by the UNC following the killing of six Naga people who, according to the organisation, were abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district in May.
 

Monday’s meeting marks an attempt by the state government and the Naga body to open a dialogue on the issues, even as the UNC remains firm on continuing the blockade until its demands are addressed.