CoTU moots reopening Gamgiphai checkpoint after truck accident
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, April 12 2025: In response to the truck accident at Keithelmanbi Military Colony on Friday, where a Meetei individual was injured, Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Kangpokpi district, expressed deep shock over the presence of the individual and mooted reopening of Gamgiphai checkpoint to resume strict vehicle checking.

The Committee recalled that women volunteers were earlier deployed at Gamgiphai checkpoint to verify commuters traveling along NH-2 for security purposes - until the checkpoint was recently dismantled by security forces.

Despite the conflict, CoTU commended the residents of Keithelmanbi Military Colony for their humanitarian response, highlighting their adherence to traditional Kuki-Zo war ethics, which emphasise the protection of innocents, women, and children even during warfare.

The Committee recalled multiple instances where innocent Meetei individuals, women, and children were rescued during the ongoing unrest and returned safely to their families with dignity.

However, the Committee expressed outrage at what it views as a deliberate crossing into Kuki-Zo territory, especially amid the community's strong opposition to the Government's Free Movement policy.

CoTU stated that this act is not only alarming but also indicates a continued attempt to breach the security of Kuki-Zo areas.

Alleging the incident as a reckless act of smuggling Meetei individual through the area, CoTU warned that any recurrence of such incidents would be met with decisive and forceful action.

The Committee described the event as a deliberate and provocative act, adding, "This may not be the first attempt - but it will be the last if we have our way".

Issuing a stern reminder to truck drivers, transport unions, and other authorities operating along NH-2, CoTU warned against transporting individuals from conflicting communities through sensitive areas, citing the potential for misunderstandings and dangerous flare-ups.

For any future violations, the Committee made it clear that full responsibility would lie with the truckers' unions and the authorities involved, reiterating its commitment to act decisively to uphold security and accountability.

The Committee emphasised that the checkpoint is crucial to ensuring the safety and stability of the region, especially given the community's firm opposition to the Free Movement policy and the heightened risks associated with border crossings.

CoTU also appealed to the entire Kuki-Zo community to remain vigilant and united, urging them to actively safeguard their territories and support security protocols to prevent such incidents from escalating into larger confrontations.

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