Manipur Government and UNC Engage in Productive Talks Amid Ongoing Blockade
Initial Talks Yield Positive Outcomes
Around 400 trucks remain stranded near Litan on the Imphal-Ukhrul route amid the UNC blockade. (AT Photo)
Imphal/Senapati, Aug 10: The initial discussions between the Manipur administration and the United Naga Council (UNC) were described as “fruitful and cordial.” Both parties have agreed to continue addressing the concerns raised by the Naga organization.
The meeting took place at the Senapati district headquarters on Monday, where a delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister L Dikho and Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam engaged with UNC representatives.
Government spokesperson Thokchom Radheshyam characterized the meeting as an “ice breaker,” indicating that further discussions will be necessary to resolve the issues at hand.
“Today, representatives from the United Naga Council and the Manipur government, led by the deputy chief minister and state home minister, convened here in Senapati to deliberate on various matters. We had productive and amicable discussions. This marks the first round of talks, and additional meetings will follow to seek resolutions,” Radheshyam informed reporters.
Regarding the UNC's request for the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant factions, Radheshyam noted that this is dictated by the central government's policy.
“This is a matter governed by the Government of India’s policy. Manipur is part of India, and we must adhere to the decisions made by the Centre,” he stated.
However, UNC president Ng Lorho emphasized that the organization will persist with its blockade of national highways until its four-point demands are met.
The UNC's demands include the annulment of the SoO agreement, the designation of the Kuki National Front-President (KNF-P) as a terrorist group, the removal of the deputy chief minister, and the arrest of KNF-P members allegedly involved in the deaths of six Naga civilians.
“We discussed with ministers and MLAs the path forward to achieve peace. We reiterated our four-point demands, and we will not lift the blockade until they are addressed,” Lorho asserted.
In the meantime, the ongoing blockade has significantly hindered the transport of essential goods, leading to increased prices for food items in the region.
Over 400 trucks have been stranded near Litan along the Imphal-Ukhrul route for nearly three weeks, leaving many drivers and their assistants struggling to find food, water, and sanitation facilities.
Drivers reported being away from home for 20 to 22 days, depleting their funds. One driver mentioned they were surviving on limited provisions, including half a kilogram of potatoes and onions, along with a small packet of cooking oil.
The Ukhrul District Drivers’ Union has provided some daily necessities, but shortages persist, according to the drivers.
Despite reaching out to local police and the Deputy Commissioner, they have been unable to secure passage through the blocked area. The truckers have appealed to both the state and central governments for safe passage for the 400-500 stranded vehicles.
“We recognize the existence of a road blockade and a conflict situation. However, the government has a duty to ensure that at least these 400 to 500 vehicles are granted safe passage to Imphal,” a driver remarked.
The extended halt has also resulted in financial strain, as drivers are unable to earn income while their vehicle loan payments remain due. Some have indicated they may surrender their vehicle keys to their union and return home if a resolution is not reached.
The UNC's decision to maintain the blockade raises concerns for the stranded truckers, prompting renewed calls for a humanitarian arrangement to facilitate their safe passage.