Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati bus service resumes after 3 years in violence-hit Manipur

Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati bus service resumes after 3 years in violence-hit Manipur Public transport services on the Imphal, Dimapur, Guwahati route resumed after nearly three years, with 125 passengers traveling in two buses and five wingers on Friday. This marks a significant step toward restoring connectivity in Manipur, which has been affected by ongoing ethnic tensions. The journey covered several districts, including Kangpokpi and Senapati, both of which were previously under restrictions due to the conflict. The buses traversed Kangpokpi, a district primarily inhabited by the Kuki community, and Senapati, dominated by the Naga population, before entering Nagaland en route to Guwahati. This route symbolizes an effort to reconnect communities separated by the ethnic conflict. The trip was seen as a hopeful sign for the restoration of normalcy and improved mobility within the state. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, alongside Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen, had previously visited Kangpokpi district on August 8. During that visit, they announced the resumption of national highway travel for all communities and confirmed plans to restart the Imphal, Dimapur, Guwahati bus service. These assurances came amid continued efforts by the state government to address the challenges posed by the unrest. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had instructed the Manipur government to guarantee free movement along all national highways starting from March 8, 2025. Despite these directives, Kuki-Zo groups resisted, leading to disruptions in the implementation of the policy. The groups managed to block government initiatives twice in Kangpokpi district, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by authorities in ensuring safe passage. Among the travelers was Kiyam Kumarjit Singh, a member of the Meitei community from Thoubal district. He expressed hope that the renewed service could foster unity and reconciliation among different communities. “This new journey should bring love, peace, and harmony among all communities in the state,” he said. “Let us all forgive and forget the past.” Another traveler, Nivedita from Khundrakpam village in Imphal East district, extended her gratitude to the government for facilitating the return of public transportation. Her comments reflected the broader sentiment of many residents who had long awaited the resumption of such services. The ethnic clashes in Manipur initially erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities, eventually involving nearly all groups in the region. Since the conflict began in May 2023, the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities have largely isolated themselves from each other's territories. This separation led to at least 260 deaths and the displacement of approximately 60,000 individuals. The Meitei community, predominantly Hindu, resides mainly in the Imphal Valley, while the Kukis, mostly Christian, inhabit the hill regions. Although the state government asserts there are no designated buffer zones separating communities, it has identified specific sensitive areas requiring special attention. A new government was established in February, nearly a year after the imposition of President’s Rule. This administration includes representatives from all three major communities, aiming to achieve ethnic balance and promote stability. The formation of this government represents a critical turning point in the state’s political landscape, offering potential pathways toward healing and reconciliation.