IMPHAL, July 22: The Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs)-Ukhrul has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the district administrations of Imphal East, Kangpokpi and Ukhrul, demanding immediate action to stop the alleged confiscation and burning of essential commodities destined for Kuki-Zo inhabited areas.
The committee warned that if its demands are not met, it will enforce a three-day counter economic blockade from midnight on July 23.
In a statement, the organisation alleged that relief materials have continued to be confiscated and destroyed and that drivers transporting essential supplies have been intimidated despite assurances reportedly given by the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul during a closed-door meeting on June 25.
It claimed that such incidents had occurred at Wunghon, Saijang and, most recently, Sokvao, undermining the administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe movement of essential commodities to Kuki-Zo populated areas.
The committee further alleged that a blockade on National Highway-2 by Naga and Meitei groups at Senapati and Kanglatongbi has continued for nearly a month without effective intervention by the Manipur government or the Centre.
According to the statement, while the Kuki-Zo community has facilitated the escorted movement of hundreds of vehicles through its areas, vehicles carrying essential supplies to Kuki-Zo civilians have allegedly been intercepted, with relief materials confiscated and burnt.
The organisation also alleged the involvement of certain local groups and named the Officer-in-Charge of Yaingangpokpi Police Station in connection with the reported incidents. It claimed that essential commodities worth nearly ₹10 lakh have been lost due to the alleged confiscation and destruction.
Accusing the authorities of failing to ensure equal access to humanitarian assistance, the committee said the Kuki-Zo community had exercised restraint throughout the ongoing ethnic conflict but warned that such restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.
The WCKCSOs urged the district administrations to ensure the safe and unhindered movement of essential goods to Kuki-Zo areas and immediately halt the alleged confiscation of supplies. It said responsibility for any consequences arising from the proposed blockade would rest with the concerned authorities if no action is taken within the stipulated timeframe.
