An indefinite sit-in protest demanding free movement along national highways was held today at Sekmai Bazar in Imphal West. The demonstration was organised by Awang Sekmai Kanba Nupi Lup, Imagi Meira, and the People’s Progressive Alliance Manipur.
Speaking at the protest, Sujata, convenor of Imagi Meira, said that despite repeated announcements by the Centre, Meitei people are still unable to travel freely along the highways. She referred to the first announcement made in March by the Union Home Minister and the latest announcement issued yesterday following the extension of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact. “This announcement by the Centre is useless. We cannot trust the Centre or the State government unless they act and give written assurances for the safety of Meitei people on the highways,” she stated.
Protestors highlighted that while several trucks carrying goods and other supplies belonging to people from other communities were seen moving along the highway today, Meiteis were not allowed to travel. They added that such truck movements have taken place in the past as well, particularly after the outbreak of violence, but without the participation of Meitei transporters or travellers.
The SoO pact was recently extended between the Centre, Kuki-Zo groups, and the Manipur government, with promises to ensure peace and open movement on NH-2. Kuki-Zo leaders maintain that the highway was never blocked, but their position excludes buffer zones where tensions remain high. Meanwhile, civil society groups representing the Meitei community have condemned the extension, calling it harmful to their security and rights under President’s Rule.
