SENAPATI, Jan 4: The Naga People’s Organisation (NPO) has issued a strong appeal to the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi, urging them to refrain from imposing constant and sudden blockades along National Highway 2 (NH-2), a critical route for the movement of goods and passengers.

“The Naga Peoples’ Organization does not object their right to protest against the
State and Central Government inaction and injustice. However, those measures
adopted by CoTU must not destabilize the wellbeing of Nagas in Senapati district,” the statement from NPO stated. The NPO further urged CoTU to protect the rights and safety of the Nagas community and provide incessant flow of traffic on NH-2.

“Frequent and sudden blockades and shutdowns imposed by CoTU have caused significant hardship to the Nagas in Senapati, who depend on this vital route. However, it is imperative to maintain NH-2 as a ‘safe zone’ for free movement of goods, services, and passengers,” the statement read.

“The organization invites urgent attention of the State and the Central Governments that despite heavy presence of state and Central Forces on NH-2 the situation continues to be unsafe for free movement of passengers and goods,” the NPO asserted.

The NPO also called for a cooperative approach to resolve the ongoing conflict in Manipur and appeals CoTU to act responsibly and considerately to
ensure peaceful coexistence.