Manipur’s Kangpokpi district witnessed heightened tensions on Sunday as Kuki protesters clashed with security forces over Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive to ensure free movement across the state starting March 8. The directive, aimed at restoring normalcy in the violence-hit state, has faced strong opposition from sections of the Kuki community.
Protests and Clashes
Protesters opposing the free movement directive burned tyres along the Imphal-Dimapur highway, obstructing the movement of state government vehicles. The situation escalated when demonstrators clashed with security personnel, pelting stones and setting private vehicles on fire. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to injuries on both sides.
The unrest coincided with a peace march organized by the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), a Meitei body, which was stopped by police at Sekmai before it could reach Kangpokpi. The police cited the lack of permission as the reason for halting the procession. “We are just following orders. If they want to go, they can use the state buses arranged by the government,” a police officer stated.
FOCS’s Perspective
FOCS members argued that their march was in line with Shah’s directive for free movement and aimed to promote peace in the state. “The purpose of the march is to bring peace to the state. If the government is not in a position to allow the free movement of the public, what is the need for making the announcement?” they questioned.
Background
The free movement directive comes in the wake of ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which have plagued Manipur since May 2023. The violence has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands, leaving the state deeply divided along ethnic lines.
Government’s Stance
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called for strict action against those obstructing free movement, emphasizing the need to restore peace and normalcy in the state. However, the directive has been met with resistance from Kuki groups, who view it as a threat to their autonomy and have demanded a separate administration.
As the situation remains volatile, the central and state governments face the challenge of addressing the underlying issues while ensuring public safety and order.
