With armed escorts, state-run buses will begin operating on major routes, despite strong opposition from Kuki organizations warning of unrest.
BY PC Bureau
Amid looming fears of violence and Opposition from Kuki organisations, the Manipur government is pushing forward with efforts to ensure free movement across key highways. Despite stiff resistance, the state has announced bus services under armed security escort, aiming to restore normalcy in the region. The Million dollar question is how many people will avail of the service?
Several Kuki outfits have opposed the move, citing security concerns and accusing the government of disregarding the volatile situation. They have warned of potential unrest if state transport buses attempt to pass through contested areas without addressing their demands. Civil society groups have echoed similar concerns, cautioning that any forced imposition of transit routes could escalate tensions.
ALSO REad: BREAKING: KZC will be the apex body and lone voice of Kuki-Zo civil society groups
Despite these warnings, the government has scheduled bus services starting March 8, 2025, under the protection of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The designated routes include:
- Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati
- Senapati-Kangpokpi-Imphal
- Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur
- Churachandpur-Bishnupur-Imphal
This initiative without taking people into confidence is simply a mischievous agenda of @BJP4India Govt to prolong the violence by triggering more confusion, chaos and violence in the state. The message of Peace can't be conveyed through force. @rashtrapatibhvn @INCIndia… pic.twitter.com/UbBAK1GEJV
— Dr. Lamtinthang Haokip (@DrLamtinthangHk) March 7, 2025
Additionally, the state is reinforcing connectivity through the Manipur Heli Service, which will operate helicopter routes between Imphal, Churachandpur, and Ukhrul on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
ALSO READ: The New Delhi-Aizawl-Chin State Equation: What’s at Stake for the Kuki-Zo?
Authorities have issued a strict warning against any disruption, stating that those obstructing the movement of buses will face prosecution. The government has urged citizens to utilize the services, emphasizing that maintaining transport links is critical for daily life and economic stability.
While tensions remain high, the administration appears determined to press ahead with its plans, signaling that restoring normalcy will take precedence over political opposition.
Earlier, a press release by the Kuki Zo Council so acknowledged the MHA’s notification for the free movement of essential commodities commencing March 8. While welcoming this initiative, the leaders proposed specific measures to ensure safety, including the establishment of a ‘cessation of hostilities’ agreement between the Kuki Zo and Meitei communities before allowing passenger movement. They also called for phased deliberation on crossing buffer zones, contingent on lasting peace and constitutional safeguards for Kuki Zo citizens.
