An indefinite bandh began today in the foothill regions of Manipur, called by the Foothills Naga Coordinating Committee (FNCC), in protest against a proposed road project reportedly backed by Kuki civil society organizations (CSOs).
The road, intended to connect the Kuki-dominated districts of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi, has drawn serious opposition from Naga communities, who claim the proposed alignment passes through their ancestral land without consultation or consent. The FNCC has expressed strong resentment over the alleged naming of the project as “Tiger Road” or “German Road” — names reportedly associated with leaders of Kuki militant groups.
Athot Kaitang, President of the Manipur Naga Youth Organisation (MNYO), stated that the Naga community will oppose the project “tooth and nail,” warning that any attempt to construct the road through Naga villages will be met with sustained resistance.
The proposed road is being seen by Kuki groups as a vital link, especially in light of ongoing ethnic tensions which have restricted their access to the Meitei-majority valley areas. However, Naga organizations argue that the plan disregards the rights and security of their communities.
Since early Saturday morning, the bandh has brought normal life to a halt in several foothill areas. Roads have been blocked, and public transport has been severely disrupted. Protesters have vowed to continue the shutdown until the government reconsiders the project and engages all stakeholders in meaningful dialogue.
As of now, there has been no official response from the state government. The bandh comes at a time when Manipur is already facing heightened ethnic tensions, and the latest development threatens to further complicate the fragile peace in the region.
