Manipur govt-UNC talks fail to end economic blockade

IMPHAL, AUG 10: A high-level dialogue between the Manipur government and the United Naga Council (UNC) on lifting the ongoing inter-district economic blockade failed to yield any breakthrough on Monday at Senapati district headquarters. The blockade, imposed by Naga frontal organizations under the UNC, continues to paralyze movement of essential commodities along national highways in Naga-inhabited areas.
The indefinite blockade was launched in response to the abduction and brutal killing of six Liangmai Naga hostages in Kangpokpi district earlier this year. The UNC, as the apex body of Naga tribes in Manipur, has demanded justice for the victims and pressed the government to meet its charter of demands. These include abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) with specific Kuki militant factions, formal declaration of the accused groups as terrorist outfits and swift legal action against cadres involved in the killings.
Deputy chief minister Losii Dikho led the government delegation, which included Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam and several MLAs from ruling parties. The UNC team was headed by president Ng Lorho, accompanied by general secretary Vareiyo Shatsang, member secretary Thotso AC and advisors Paul Leo and Adani Mao. Despite cordial exchanges, the UNC reiterated its stance that the blockade would continue until its demands were addressed. Lorho warned that the council was prepared to adopt more stringent measures if the government failed to act.
Government spokesperson Thokcham Radheshyam described the meeting as “fruitful and cordial,” stressing that it was only the first round of talks. He expressed optimism that further discussions would help resolve the issues. However, he clarified that the demand for abrogation of the SoO agreement was subject to the policy of the Government of India, which the state must adhere to.
The blockade has severely impacted supply of essential commodities, particularly in Kangpokpi district, where a humanitarian crisis has emerged due to shortages of food and life-saving medicines. The prolonged stir has heightened tensions between communities and disrupted normal life across affected districts. The government’s initiative to reopen NH-2 for all communities, announced by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh during his Kangpokpi visit on August 8, has yet to ease the situation.
Monday’s talks, though inconclusive, marked the first formal attempt by the state to engage the UNC since the blockade began. While the government delegation emphasized dialogue and reconciliation, the UNC maintained its firm position on justice and accountability. The impasse underscores the complexity of ethnic relations and insurgency-linked grievances in Manipur, where fragile peace often hinges on sensitive negotiations between the state and tribal organizations.
As the blockade continues, the state faces mounting pressure to balance law and order with humanitarian needs. The coming rounds of talks will be critical in determining whether a compromise can be reached to restore normalcy in the region.