Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive to restore free movement on all roads in violence-hit Manipur is set to take effect from Saturday, March 8, 2025. However, the move has sparked opposition from the Kuki-Zo community, raising concerns about potential unrest in the region.
Kuki-Zo Community’s Opposition
The influential Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), representing the Kuki-Zo community, has strongly opposed the proposed peace expedition by the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), a conglomerate of 20 Imphal Valley-based groups. COTU described the expedition as an intrusion into Kuki-Zo territories and a breach of buffer zones established to maintain peace.
In a statement, COTU criticized the free movement initiative, calling it “misplaced information” influenced by a “radical Meitei narrative.” The organization emphasized that essential commodities have consistently been transported through Kuki-Zo-dominated National Highway 2, except for rare instances aimed at drawing the Centre’s attention to unresolved issues.
FOCS Peace Expedition
FOCS President T. Manihar announced the peace expedition as a response to Shah’s directive, stating that its objective is to deliver messages of peace to buffer zones and hill areas. The expedition is planned to travel from Kangla Fort in Imphal to the Naga-majority Senapati district, passing through the Kuki-majority Kangpokpi district.
COTU’s Appeal for Separate Administration
COTU has appealed to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to protect the minority Kuki-Zo community by granting a “separate administration” under Article 239A of the Constitution. The organization argued that this measure is essential to safeguard the integrity of the country and the North Eastern Frontiers of India.
Background of Ethnic Violence
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, which has claimed over 250 lives and displaced 60,000 people. The conflict primarily involves the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, with tensions rooted in historical grievances and competing claims over land and resources.
Government’s Stance
During a high-level review meeting on March 1, Shah directed strict action against any attempts to obstruct free movement. The government remains committed to restoring peace and normalcy in the state, despite the challenges posed by ethnic divisions.
As the free movement directive takes effect, all eyes are on Manipur to see how the situation unfolds.
