Songpi: The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) has urged the Manipur government to ensure effective ground-level implementation of its August 28 order directing removal of blockades and obstructions from highways across the state, following the reported lifting of the blockade on National Highway-2.
The appeal was made in a statement issued on Tuesday, October 6, after the Supreme Court disposed of a writ petition filed by the organization seeking restoration of highway connectivity and movement of essential commodities to Kangpokpi district and other affected areas in the state.
KWOHR had moved the Supreme Court in July under Article 32 of the Constitution seeking directions for removal of the blockade on NH-2, which is considered the lifeline of Manipur connecting the state to the rest of the country. The petition highlighted alleged disruption in the supply chain of essential goods.
During hearings in August, the apex court had asked concerned groups to work towards a comprehensive plan for reopening of the highways, observing the severe hardship caused to the common people due to disruption in the movement of essential supplies, including food and medicine.
On September 28, the Supreme Court disposed of the petition after the Manipur government informed the bench that NH-2 had been reopened and that transportation of essential commodities had resumed through the highway. The court also recorded the state government’s submission that steps were being taken to clear blockades on other national and state highways as well.
Following the court’s order, KWOHR in its Tuesday statement described the reopening of NH-2 as an important and positive development. However, it stressed that the state government should not treat it as a one-time action and must ensure that the August 28 order is implemented effectively and continuously on the ground.
The organization claimed in its statement that the prolonged disruption had affected the availability of food, fuel and medical supplies in parts of Kangpokpi district. It further alleged that ambulances and medical personnel had faced difficulties in accessing affected areas and that patients had been prevented from reaching hospitals for treatment. These claims were made by the organization and have not been independently verified by authorities.
KWOHR also raised concerns regarding the tripartite talks held on September 26 involving the United Naga Council, the Manipur government and the Central government, claiming that no Kuki representatives were present during the discussions. The organization also questioned the handling of compensation for families affected by recent violence and appreciated civil society groups that it said had provided humanitarian assistance during the period of disruption, while reiterating its demand for regular monitoring to ensure uninterrupted movement of essentials and emergency services.
