Reports of violence emerged on the first day of free movement in Manipur. Tensions escalated when a convoy traveling from Imphal to Senapati was halted in a Kuki-dominated area. Security forces intervened, dispersing the protesters with mild force and tear gas, eventually clearing the route for citizens' movement. Aaj Tak assessed the situation directly from Ground Zero.
For nearly two years, Manipur has endured conflict, resulting in over 250 casualties and thousands being displaced. Free movement between Meitei and Kuki areas commenced on Saturday, following directives by Union Home Minister Amit Shah last week. Movement started today from two routes.
The first route connects Imphal through Senapati to Kangpokpi district and the second route runs from Imphal through Churachandpur to Bishnupur. Despite the ongoing buffer zone in Churachandpur, security forces have enabled free movement, allowing residents from Kuki and Meitei areas to traverse freely. The convoy of security forces reached Churachandpur peacefully, although they faced stops on the way from Imphal through Kangpokpi to Senapati.
Vehicles Stopped in Kuki-Dominated Area
A convoy intended to facilitate public movement from Imphal to Senapati was halted in a Kuki area, prompting security forces to use mild force and tear gas to clear the way.
A Significant Move to Foster Public Confidence
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently directed the commencement of free movement from Imphal, leading to security forces initiating this on Saturday. Trucks loaded with goods were dispatched toward Churachandpur, the first time supplies traversed through Bishnupur. Some individuals are also expected to travel. Previously, people hesitated to venture from the lowlands to the hills, but this significant step aims to rebuild public confidence.
The Plan...
The administration selected two routes: one through Bishnupur to Churachandpur and another to Kangpokpi and Senapati. All vehicles, observed under security watch, continued their journey. Any individual attempting to halt these vehicles will face stringent actions. As a contingency, helicopters are available for those needing to move from the hills of Churachandpur. Construction materials are also being transported. While lowland residents are still hesitant to visit the hills, the government strives to restore trust and gradually resume movement.
Efforts last December by former CM N. Biren Singh to start public bus routes from Imphal to Kangpokpi and Churachandpur failed, as no passengers utilized the Manipur State Transport Station at Moirangkhom, Imphal.
Since conflicts resumed in May 2023, inter-community trust has severely fractured, leading to Meitei fleeing Kuki-dominated hills and vice versa.
