The Kuki CSO Working Committee (WCKCSOs) in Ukhrul, Manipur, has withdrawn its assurance of free movement along National Highway‑202, effective immediately, citing a prolonged blockade at Wunghon that it says has cut off food and essential supplies to Kuki areas. In a statement dated April 11, the committee said the obstruction — described as a “selective economic restriction” by Tangkhul women — has created “grave humanitarian concerns” across tense hill districts.
WCKCSOs said its decision follows an unanswered ultimatum issued on April 7 and warned that, “From April 12, no Kuki CSOs, volunteers, or members of the Kuki public should be held accountable for any untoward incidents that may occur along NH‑202,” specifically naming the Litan–Sareikhong to Mongneljang stretch. The committee called the move “unavoidable” after what it described as ignored appeals, and held the government “solely responsible for any escalation from this point onward.”
Rejecting allegations that Kuki groups have imposed restrictions on NH‑202, the statement dismissed such claims as “unfounded” and a “misrepresentation of ground realities.” WCKCSOs said its stance is rooted in “fairness, justice and humanitarian principles.”
The committee also commented on recent security responses to gunfire, calling delayed action “better late than never” but raising alarm over what it termed the use of “supersonic ammunition” by alleged Tangkhul militants. WCKCSOs said such fire can produce “deceptive acoustic effects” that risk misidentification and urged authorities to verify the origin of gunfire before taking action.
Pointing to fresh violence in the hills, the panel cited two civilians killed in Thawai Kuki, three injured in Mongkot Chepu, and the death of a BSF constable. The statement appealed for restraint: “Let reason prevail. Let truth guide action. Let sanity overcome hate and propaganda.”
The announcements come amid simmering ethnic tensions in Manipur’s hill areas, raising fears that local blockades and reciprocal accusations could broaden unrest along key routes such as NH‑202.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/kuki-group-in-ukhrul-drops-responsibility-for-nh-202-safety-amid-blockade-hardship-1374332-2026-04-12?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-04-12 09:48:00
