After nearly two years, free traffic movement commenced in areas dominated by the Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur on Saturday, under strict security measures. The roads connecting Imphal, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, and Senapati opened for commercial vehicles, state transport corporation buses, and gas and oil tankers.
While passage from Imphal to Churachandpur was smooth, the route through Kangpokpi was obstructed by the Kuki community. They declared that no Meitei individuals would be allowed into their areas, placing stones to block the road. Security convoys were also halted in some areas, prompting security forces to conduct baton charges and fire tear gas as crowds became unruly.
Traffic Opened Under Security Surveillance
CRPF and local police ensure the protection of government buses plying the routes to Imphal, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, and Senapati. Security forces are deployed extensively in sensitive areas, and a buffer zone remains in Churachandpur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had previously instructed from March 8 to ensure free traffic movement on major routes in Manipur, with strict action ordered against those blocking roads.
Security forces began free movement on the first day, with commercial vehicles, government buses, and oil-gas tankers visible, though the Meitei and Kuki communities remained hesitant. CRPF's DIG Sanjay Kumar, speaking to Aajtak, said, "Movement has been stalled for some time, causing great inconvenience. As per the government’s instruction, CRPF is to ensure free movement between Imphal and Churachandpur. We hope to instill confidence in the public, encouraging them to travel freely."
CRPF Provides Security to Both Kuki and Meitei
He added, "Fear persists among both valley and hill residents. CRPF’s arrangements are visible, showing how safety is being provided, which is expected to encourage travel. CRPF ensures security for both valley and hill people, promoting coexistence between the Meitei and Kuki, assuring citizens that the earlier situation is no longer prevailing. We believe this confidence will lead to intercommunity travel."
Read More: Surrender of Weapons and Bunkers Missiles Cleared from 5 Manipur Districts
After the resignation of Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9, President's rule came into effect on February 13. The Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urged the surrender of looted weapons, resulting in over 500 weapons returned. Violence followed a Manipur High Court decision on May 3, 2023, regarding ST status for the Meitei community; violence that has claimed over 300 lives, injured more than 1500, and displaced thousands, continues.
