Manipur chokes as Kukis block highways

Manipur is once again facing the heat of blockade of two arterial highways that serve as the only supply routes to the state from the rest of the country. Kuki-tribe-dominated Sadar Hills District Demand Committee had called for a weeklong blockade of National Highways 39 and 53 on August 1 to mount pressure on the Manipur government to create a separate district for the Sadar Hills area, carving it out of the present Senapati district. However, the SHDDC agitationists have intensified the agitation after their last Thursday's talks with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh failed to make any headway towards solving the problem. The SHDDC has decided to extend the highway blockade programme till August 31, much to the worry of people in Manipur, especially in valley districts. The prices of essential items have already shown an upward trend, as the supply of goods along the two highways has been severely affected. The NH 39 connects Manipur to the rest of the country through Dimapur in Nagaland while NH 53 connects the state through Silchar in south Assam. Despite heavy deployment of forces, blockade supporters have dug up craters at many points on the NH 39 besides torching a number of government offices and establishments. Meanwhile, the All Naga Students Association of Manipur has opposed creation of a separate Sadar Hills district carving it out of Senapati district. "The ANSAM and Nagas in general will like to remind the state (Manipur) government that Sadar Hills district will not be allowed to be created by carving the area out of Naga-dominated area of Manipur," the ANSAM stated. The Kuki tribe has raised the demand for a separate Sadar Hills district as they are wary of rival Naga tribe's demand for an alternative arrangement for administration of Naga-dominated hill districts of Manipur, including Senapati district. Manipur Nagas' demand for a separate administration for hill areas in Manipur enjoys the backing of Naga rebel group Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isaac Muviah, which is engaged in peace talks with the Centre.