ITLF claims 'no blockade' on NH since July 2023
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 22 2024: Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) which is spearheading the demand for a separate administration for the Kukis in the going conflict with the Meeteis, has claimed that the Kuki-Zo people have refrained from any form of blockade on national highways since July last year.

In a statement, the Kuki organisation strongly condemned the June 15 incident of torching of Bharat Infra Project Limited (BIPL) trucks carrying bridge construction materials at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district.

The construction materials were intended for a bridge on the Churachandpur-Tuivai Road (NH-102 B) section of NH-102.Despite the heavy deployment of security forces, the mob managed to burn two out of four trucks with minimal resistance from the police.

This incident, ITLF asserted, is a significant setback to security efforts and an embarrassment for the security forces, as the trucks were forced to return to Imphal with the remnants of the construction materials.

ITLF claimed that since July 2023, Kuki-Zo people have refrained from any form of blockade on national highways, following an appeal and assurance from the Ministry of Home Affairs for a peaceful settlement of their political demands.

Despite the Kuki-Zo community allowing free passage in the northern and western parts of the state, Meetei groups from the valley districts continue to impede the movement of essential goods intended for hill districts such as Churachandpur, Pherzawl, Tengnoupal, and Chandel, the alleged.

The statement emphasised that the patience and toler ance demonstrated by the Kuki-Zo people should not be mistaken for weakness or incompetence.

ITLF urged the Government of India to intervene promptly for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of essential commodities To the hill districts before the situation deteriorates further.

ITLF also warned that if the Meetei groups and the Biren government persist in their unfair treatment by withholding basic necessities, then Kuki-Zo people might reconsider their stance on the economic blockade.

Comment