Imphal: Inner Manipur Lok Sabha MP Bimol Akoijam has emphasised that the restoration of normalcy in Manipur is impossible as long as restrictions on the free movement of people persist.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Akoijam highlighted the restrictions imposed by certain groups on access to sacred sites such as the Thangjing Hills in Churachandpur district and Koubru in Kangpokpi district.
He described the issue as one of fundamental rights and governance rather than communal tensions.
“This is not just a communal matter; it’s about the basic rights of citizens. Without free movement and the return of internally displaced persons to their homes, normalcy cannot be achieved in the state,” he said.
Akoijam referred to an incident on April 14 when Meitei pilgrims, following advice from community elders, abandoned plans to visit the Thangjing Hills.
The decision was made after Kuki-Zo groups staged protests warning against crossing the heavily guarded “buffer zone” separating Meitei-controlled Imphal Valley from Kuki-dominated hill districts.
The ongoing ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands since May 2023, leaving the state deeply divided.
Akoijam also expressed frustration over being denied the opportunity to speak in Parliament during discussions on the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur.
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“Both Outer Manipur MP Alfred and I were present, but we were not allowed to speak,” he alleged.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9.
The state assembly remains under suspended animation, despite its tenure lasting until 2027.
