Naga body enforces economic blockade in Manipur, supply of essential commodities disrupted

The blockade has affected three highways – Leimatak Loktak Project Road, Tongjei Maril Road (Old Cachar Road), and National Highway-37 connecting the state with Assam

The RNCM imposed the blockade seeking the inclusion of 70 Naga sub-tribes-dominated villages falling in Kuki-Zo-dominated Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts under the Naga-majority Noney district. (Representational Image/Express Archives)

The economic blockade imposed by the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) has disrupted the supply of goods in Manipur.

Several trucks carrying essential commodities remained stranded on the highways since the blockade started on Sunday. The blockade has affected three highways – Leimatak Loktak Project Road, Tongjei Maril Road (Old Cachar Road), and National Highway-37 connecting the state with Assam.

The RNCM imposed the blockade seeking the inclusion of 70 Naga sub-tribes-dominated villages falling in Kuki-Zo-dominated Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts under the Naga-majority Noney district.

Thaimei Gaimei, General Secretary, RNCM, said we have submitted several memorandums to the Manipur Government, including the chief minister, listing our grievances.

Also Read | Explained: The bandh called by a Naga outfit that has blocked the national highway near Manipur-Nagaland border

“The Naga sub-tribes are facing a lot of inconveniences… which is why we have demanded an alternative administrative arrangement for us in Noney district. Unfortunately, our plight has been ignored and not taken seriously,” said Gaimei.

The Naga leader added that they would be compelled to impose a total shutdown if the state government continued to ignore their demand.

Notably, Manipur has been witnessing sporadic ethnic violence between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities since May last year.

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