A Meitei civil society group has written to Home Minister Amit Shah, alleging an “unconstitutional blockade” and death threats by Chin-Kuki militants against Meitei pilgrims at Thangjing Hill, Manipur, urging decisive action to protect their constitutional rights and prevent further unrest.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi:
April 15, 2025: The Meitei Heritage Society has sought immediate intervention from Home Minister Amit Shah to address alleged threats and an “unconstitutional blockade” imposed by Kuki militants and civil society organizations against Meitei pilgrims at the sacred Thangjing Hill in Manipur.
In a letter dated today, the Meitei Heritage Society conveyed their “deep concerns” regarding the situation, emphasizing the immense religious and cultural significance of Thangjing Hill for the Meitei community, which has undertaken annual pilgrimages to worship Ibudhou Thangjing for generations.
The society stated that the current blockade represents a “blatant violation” of their constitutional rights and a “direct assault” on their heritage, drawing a parallel to barring Hindus from Kailash Parbat or Muslims from Mecca. They highlighted “public death threats” (referring to an attached annexure) and alleged “video evidence of armed militants stationed at the hilltop” as part of a targeted campaign to deny religious freedom. The letter argues that these actions violate Articles 25(1), 19(1)(d), and 21 of the Constitution and threaten the fragile peace in the region.
Furthermore, the Meitei Heritage Society pointed out the broader impact of alleged highway blockades by Chin-Kuki groups over the past two years, stating that many Meiteis unable to afford air travel have been deprived of religious practices, including pilgrimages to other sites like Nabadweep and Vrindavan, and the immersion of ashes at Haridwar.
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The letter characterizes the threat to pilgrims at Thangjing Hill as a “deliberate provocation aimed at inciting unrest” among the Meitei community, rather than a mere law-and-order issue. The society expressed deep concern over the “inaction” despite the imposition of President’s Rule and the presence of a significant security force, especially in light of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ directive on March 1, 2025, for free movement across Manipur, with warnings against obstruction.
The Meitei Heritage Society urged Amit Shah to:
- Ensure the safety of Meitei pilgrims and civilians visiting Thangjing Hill.
- Take prompt and decisive action against militant groups and their supporters blocking the pilgrims.
- Deploy adequate security forces around the sacred site to maintain peace and prevent violence.
