CoTU said the decision was taken in good faith following commitments by the Superintendent of Police to ensure protection of Kuki-Zo villages and uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
BY PC Bureau
June 22, 2026: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) on Monday announced the immediate withdrawal of the emergency blockade imposed on National Highways 2 and 37 in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, following assurances from the district administration and security authorities regarding the safety and welfare of Kuki-Zo communities.
In an official order issued through its Media Cell, CoTU stated that the blockade, which came into effect on June 21, has been lifted after discussions with government authorities and commitments made by the Superintendent of Police (SP), Kangpokpi District.
The highways, considered vital lifelines connecting the hill districts with the Imphal Valley and other parts of the state, had witnessed disruptions following concerns raised by the tribal body over security issues in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas.
According to CoTU, the decision to suspend the blockade was taken in good faith after the district police administration assured the organisation that adequate measures would be put in place to safeguard villages and residents in the region.
As part of the understanding reached, CoTU said full responsibility for the security of Kuki-Zo villages and inhabitants in Kangpokpi district would now rest with the Superintendent of Police and central security forces deployed in the area. Consequently, village volunteers who had been engaged in local security duties will stand down.
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The tribal organisation further stated that any future security lapses, attacks, incidents of arson, loss of life, or destruction of property in Kuki-Zo areas would be the sole responsibility of the police administration and security agencies.
Another key assurance secured by CoTU relates to the uninterrupted transportation of essential commodities to affected villages. The Superintendent of Police has reportedly agreed to ensure safe and adequate movement of supplies to vulnerable areas, particularly along the Leimakhong, Tuilang IT Road, Kangchup and Bungpi routes, which have faced logistical challenges in recent months.
While announcing the withdrawal of the blockade, CoTU reiterated its longstanding demand for justice for victims of the ethnic violence that has affected the state since 2023. The organisation called for the timely arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killing of three pastors and twelve other civilians, as well as those involved in the burning and destruction of homes and villages.
The organisation stressed that the suspension of the blockade should not be interpreted as a withdrawal of its demands. It said it would continue to closely monitor the situation on the ground and warned that it reserves the right to adopt appropriate democratic measures if the assurances provided by the authorities are not fulfilled.
“The decision has been taken in the interest of public safety and peace,” the order stated, while reiterating CoTU’s guiding principle of “Justice, Security and Equal Protection for All.”
The lifting of the blockade is expected to bring immediate relief to commuters, transport operators and residents who depend on the two national highways for the movement of people, food supplies, fuel and other essential goods. Transport services along the routes are likely to gradually resume normal operations following the announcement.
The development comes amid continuing tensions in parts of Kangpokpi district and other Kuki-Zo inhabited areas of Manipur, where demands for enhanced security and accountability remain central concerns for local communities. Authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation to ensure that peace and normalcy are maintained in the region.
