The tribal body cited constructive initiatives, public appeals, and ongoing natural calamities as reasons for suspending its agitation.
BY PC Bureau
September 22, 2025: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Kanggui, has withdrawn its proposed three-day economic blockade on Asian Highway-1 (AH1/NH-2), which was slated to begin at midnight on September 22.
The blockade had been announced in response to the September 19 ambush on the 33 Assam Rifles convoy at Nambol, Bishnupur district, where two personnel were killed and five others critically injured. The attack, which security officials suspect was carried out by valley-based insurgent groups, marked one of the most serious assaults on security forces in Manipur in recent months. CoTU had described the incident as a grave security lapse, demanding accountability and immediate corrective measures.
In a press release issued today, CoTU Chairman Lunthang Haokip said the decision to suspend the agitation came after “constructive initiatives and assurances provided by the authorities” to address the committee’s concerns. He noted the swift measures taken to restore security and initiate investigations into the ambush, which persuaded the leadership to reconsider the blockade.
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The committee’s executive meeting earlier in the day weighed appeals from civil society organisations, religious leaders, and local groups urging restraint, especially given ongoing natural calamities that have already disrupted lives and transport along NH-2. “Keeping in mind the latest developments regarding security in the state and appeals from the public, CoTU has decided to call off the proposed economic blockade with immediate effect in the larger interest of the people,” the statement read.
CoTU acknowledged the widespread support it received from tribal communities and the public at large but stressed that the government must follow through on its commitments. The group urged authorities to intensify counter-insurgency measures, strengthen coordination between central and state security agencies, and prevent such attacks in the future.
Economic blockades have historically been a powerful tool of protest in Manipur, often paralysing transport of essential goods into the state. By calling off the agitation, CoTU sought to balance public safety concerns with the humanitarian need to maintain supplies and connectivity.
The committee also expressed solidarity with the families of the slain Assam Rifles personnel, reiterating that the sacrifice of security forces should not go in vain.
