IMPHAL, Dec 4: The Manipur Home Department has announced the resumption of public vehicle movement along the Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati and Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur routes starting Wednesday. This decision follows a review of the law and order situation, security availability, and feasibility assessments by various agencies.
In a public appeal issued on Tuesday, the Home Department stated that traffic on these routes will initially be restricted to fixed hours, with adequate security deployment to ensure safety. Residents intending to use these routes are advised to contact the respective Deputy Commissioners:
• Imphal West: 8837448704
• Imphal East: 8131942004
• Kangpokpi: 9612700785
• Senapati: 8798198810 / 6009384139
• Bishnupur: 8837058764
• Churachandpur: 8415052791
The government emphasized that this initiative aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by the public and assured that adequate security measures have been implemented. It also appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate, avoid violence, and refrain from illegal activities that could disrupt vehicular movement. Violators will face strict legal action.
In response to the government’s decision, civil society organizations in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, have called a 48-hour total shutdown, effective from midnight on December 3. The protest stems from opposition by the Kuki-Zo communities, who accuse the government of attempting to “forcefully normalize” the situation without addressing their concerns.
Labeling the move a “bulldozed peace attempt,” local leaders argue that the government has disregarded their grievances, prompting massive protests across the district. Residents have closed shops, schools, markets, and businesses, and civil society groups have demanded the suspension of government offices in Sadar Hills to protest what they describe as a biased and unilateral decision.
