CoTU alleges Naga armed groups are fuelling instability, warns of a worsening security situation, and reiterates the demand for free movement along NH-2
Imphal: Tensions in Manipur have intensified after the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, accused Naga armed groups, including the NSCN-IM, of pursuing what it described as a “balkanisation” agenda that threatens peace and stability in the state.
In a statement, CoTU alleged that the armed groups have been allowed to operate with excessive freedom, creating security concerns, disrupting livelihoods, and undermining stability across the Northeast. The organisation also claimed that recent political developments were being influenced by what it termed “radicalised Tangkhul leaders” from Ukhrul, accusing them of attempting to reignite hostilities between the Kuki and Naga communities for political purposes.
Referring to the killing of three Baptist Church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13, CoTU alleged that the incident reflected a pattern of targeted violence against the Kuki-Zo community. It further maintained that the Kuki-Zo community has continued cooperating with Central and state security forces despite the prolonged unrest.
The organisation warned that persistent internal security challenges could undermine efforts to restore normalcy and affect India’s broader connectivity ambitions with Southeast Asia.
CoTU urged the Central and Manipur governments to take immediate steps to address the deteriorating security situation. The statement follows the committee’s earlier 48-hour ultimatum demanding the restoration of unhindered movement of vehicles and essential commodities along National Highway-2.
The organisation warned that if the free movement of essential goods is not restored, responsibility for any consequences would rest with the authorities and not with civil society organisations in Sadar Hills.
