RNCM opposes KSO shutdown call on NH-37
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 09 2025: The Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) has expressed deep concern over the indefinite shutdown imposed on National Highway 37 by the Kuki Students' Organisation, Jiribam & Tamenglong (KSO J&T) from midnight of March 8 .

In a press release issued Sunday, RNCM strongly opposed the shutdown call, stating that such an act of defiance goes against the principle of congenial coexistence, which has been meticulously established through agreements and mutual tolerance among communities that have no involvement in the ongoing inter-communal conflict in Manipur.

RNCM asserted that the Rongmeis, settling along the NH-37 from Jiribam to Keithelmanbi in Imphal, are the legitimate landowners, with a handful of small villages of other communities existing as taxpayers.

The council recalled past instances of disturbances allegedly perpetrated by the Kuki community along the highway, which had led to much speculation and discussions.

Following prolonged reasoning between the two communities, mutual agreements were signed to ensure that no such imposition or disturbances, that could jeopardise peace between the communities, would be made on NH-37 .

RNCM further emphasised that the shutdown has caused serious consequences on people's livelihood, subjecting the innocent public to unnecessary hardship, and worsening the already deteriorated socio-economic condition of the Rongmei tribe in Tamenglong and Noney districts.

The council questioned the logic behind KSO J&T's declaration, arguing that there are no Meetei villages or settlements along the designated stretch of the highway.

It termed the decision as "extremely unwise", especially at a time when the situation is highly volatile.

RNCM strongly advised KSO J&T to lift the shutdown immediately and adopt a more human and considerate approach to ensure lasting peace between communities.

The council reiterated its commitment to maintaining harmony and urged all parties to honour the existing agreements that have upheld peace along NH-37 .

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