Manipur govt announces free movement on NH, Imphal-Dimapur bus service to resume

Manipur's government announced on Saturday the resumption of free movement on National Highways and the restart of the Imphal-Dimapur bus service. This decision came after high-level discussions led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen at Kangpokpi district headquarters. The move marks a significant step toward restoring normalcy in the region, which has been embroiled in communal tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. The conflict, which began in May 2023, resulted in over 260 deaths and the displacement of more than 60,000 people. The unrest intensified after the Kuki-Zo, Meitei clashes, with various Kuki-Zo civil organizations such as the Kuki-Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) imposing restrictions on Meitei access to NH-2, the key Imphal-Dimapur highway passing through Kangpokpi. These actions were taken in response to perceived injustices and historical grievances, particularly related to land ownership and political representation. During their visit to Kangpokpi, the officials met with local community leaders and initiated development projects aimed at fostering unity and recovery. Chief Minister Khemchand emphasized that Manipur's borders are shared by all communities and that collective efforts are essential to protect the state. He called for mutual trust and cooperation, urging citizens to prioritize their identity as Indians rather than focusing solely on regional affiliations. His remarks underscored the importance of national integration while addressing the deep-seated divisions within the state. The government's initiative follows directives from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who mandated free movement on all highways in Manipur effective March 8, 2025. Despite these orders, attempts to reopen NH-2 faced disruptions due to protests in Kangpokpi. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen highlighted the BJP-led government's commitment to equitable development, noting that true progress requires balanced growth across both valley and hill regions. She reiterated the need for community harmony and invited collaboration from civil society organizations, public figures, and intellectuals to ensure long-term peace. MLA Haokholet Kipgen expressed relief at reconnecting with fellow legislators after four years of separation. He urged communities to look forward and restore normal life, emphasizing the critical role of NH-2 as a vital artery connecting diverse populations. During the visit, the Chief Minister launched new healthcare facilities, including a Dialysis Unit and a District Blood Storage facility, and distributed welfare benefits under multiple government programs. These measures aim to address immediate needs while reinforcing broader developmental goals. In parallel, law enforcement agencies reported another incident of tension in Manipur. On Monday, five abandoned houses in Kailenjang village, Senapati district, were set ablaze by unidentified armed individuals. The attack occurred around 1.30 pm, with the perpetrators fleeing the scene before authorities could intervene. Local residents noted that no gunfire was heard during the incident, suggesting possible non-lethal methods of intimidation. The affected village, once inhabited by Kuki villagers, became deserted during the 1992 Naga-Kuki conflict, leading to displacement and subsequent resettlement. Recent developments include ongoing ethnic clashes that have drawn nearly all communities into the fray. The Manipur government and representatives from the United Naga Council (UNC) recently engaged in dialogue to resolve the current economic blockades affecting the state's national highways. While initial discussions did not yield a definitive resolution, both parties acknowledged the need for peaceful negotiations to restore stability. The situation reflects the complex interplay of historical grievances, political aspirations, and socio-economic disparities that continue to shape Manipur's landscape.