Residents allege indefinite economic blockade by UNC has cut off food and medicine for 60 days; peaceful protest at Leimakhong Bazar met with force, leaving several injured and triggering retaliatory violence
By Kimbawinu Vaiphei
Kanggui, July 11, 2026: The Leimakhong area in Kangpokpi District has been completely cut off from the rest of the state for the last two months, as an indefinite economic blockade allegedly enforced by the United Naga Council (UNC) continues without any intervention from the state government.
According to residents, the blockade has created a severe humanitarian crisis on the ground. All routes carrying essential commodities have been sealed, disrupting the supply of rice, vegetables, fuel, and most critically, life-saving medicines. Families allege they are being forced to survive on dwindling stocks, with the sick and elderly unable to access basic healthcare.
Local sources said repeated memorandums and appeals were submitted to the district administration and state authorities to lift the blockade and ensure the free movement of essential supplies, but no concrete action has been taken so far. The alleged inaction has deepened public anger and a sense of abandonment among the local population.
The frustration boiled over on Saturday afternoon, when hundreds of residents, including women and elderly persons, gathered at Leimakhong Bazar to hold a peaceful demonstration. The protesters demanded the immediate restoration of food and medical supplies and an end to the prolonged economic siege.
Eyewitnesses said that as the crowd raised slogans demanding their basic rights, security forces deployed at the site intervened to disperse the gathering. Locals alleged that disproportionate force was used to break up the peaceful protest, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators, including women. The injured were reportedly taken to nearby health facilities for treatment.
The crackdown triggered a sharp escalation in tensions. According to preliminary reports from the ground, an agitated group of youths moved towards Kanto Sabal village, the site where the blockade is reportedly being enforced by volunteers from the Meitei and Liangmai Kacha Naga communities. A roadside hut at the blockade site was set on fire by the crowd. The extent of property damage is still being assessed, and there is no official confirmation yet on whether any casualties occurred during the arson.
As of Saturday evening, the situation in Leimakhong and the adjoining Kanto Sabal area remains highly tense and volatile, with additional security forces being rushed to prevent further flare-ups.
Authorities have not yet issued any official statement on the allegations of the two-month-long blockade, the reported use of force against protesters, or the subsequent arson incident.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more details emerge.
