Imphal: Daily life came to a standstill in parts of Manipur on Saturday as the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) enforced an indefinite bandh, protesting the alleged “unauthorised construction” of the Tiger Road — a route connecting Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts.
The road project, spearheaded by Kuki groups, aims to link the two districts. However, its alignment through Naga-inhabited areas has sparked deep resentment among the Naga communities, who see it as a violation of their ancestral land and cultural rights.
According to officials, bandh enforcers set up blockades at several key locations, including Makhan in Kangpokpi and multiple points in Noney district — such as Tongjei Maril (Old Cachar Road), Dolang Chiru, the Tupul–Noney stretch, and the Longsai–Khoupum Road.
In a statement issued Friday, the FNCC declared the indefinite shutdown from midnight of July 18, vowing to restrict the movement of Kuki communities in Naga foothill regions until their demands are addressed.
The committee also called for the dismantling of camps of Kuki militants who are currently under Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with the Centre, alleging their presence in Naga areas poses a threat to local security.
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Additionally, the FNCC denounced illegal poppy cultivation in the region.
The bandh has garnered support from the Eastern Liangmai Naga Chief Chairman Association, which raised alarm over what it described as growing encroachments and attempts to rename locations in Naga-dominated areas.
“These are not just inappropriate acts — they infringe upon the cultural, historical, and territorial rights of the Naga people,” the association said, demanding a rollback of such unilateral actions.
