The Kuki CSO Working Committee Ukhrul in a press statement stated that “amid the ongoing conflict and the selective economic blockade enforced along NH-202 against the Kuki communities of Ukhrul and Kamjong, neutral transporters carrying essential commodities continue to face surveillance, interception, confiscation of goods, and intimidation.”
“Meitei Pangal (Manipuri Muslim) drivers have particularly been targeted merely for delivering essential supplies, with several reportedly assaulted, including two drivers currently hospitalised.
“At approximately 8:10 a.m. today at Mongkot Chepu, a Tangkhul individual seated in the co-driver’s seat of truck No. MN01-6584, travelling from Ukhrul towards Imphal carrying firewood, was observed recording a peaceful unloading of essential commodities by villagers, a Meitei Pangal driver, and a trader. During the recording, the individual made instigative hand gestures apparently intended to provoke, signal, or draw attention towards those engaged in the lawful movement of essential supplies.
“In the context of the ongoing selective economic blockade, there is a serious apprehension that the footage was intended to identify and intimidate transporters, drivers, and traders supplying essential commodities to Kuki illages, and to deter future deliveries.
“The individual was later intercepted by alert villagers at Vahuisi along NH-202. The mobile phone used for the recording was damaged. The individual was not assaulted and was allowed to leave safely in the presence of security personnel following the intervention of WCKCSOs-Ukhrul and the Madras Regiment under 8 Bihar Regiment. The incident was immediately reported to Litan Sareikhong Police Station, and the damaged phone was handed over to the police for examination and investigation.”
“WCKCSOS-Ukhrul strongly condemns such acts of surveillance and intimidation and will pursue appropriate legal action. The continued silence and inaction of the Government and law enforcement agencies despite repeated threats, assaults, and intimidation along NH-202 raises serious questions about whose security truly matters. While some groups appear to enjoy protection and attention, communities facing the brunt of these threats are left to fend for themselves. We demand equal protection, accountability, and immediate action to restore safe and unhindered movement of essential commodities.
“In view of the repeated threats and assaults against neutral drivers, any further incident arising from such targeting must be investigated with urgency, including the role of the occupants of Truck No. MN01-6584 and those enforcing the selective economic blockade, with all persons found responsible held accountable under the law” added the statement issued by the Department of Information and Media, WCKCSOs-Ukhrul.
