The Rongmei Naga Student’s Organisation Manipur (RNSOM) has clarified that there won’t be a complete shutdown along NH-37 (Imphal-Jiribam Road) in Rongmei Naga territories, despite a 24-hour shutdown called by Kuki groups starting at midnight on June 10.
In a statement, RNSOM explained that the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills, Kuki Students Organization South West Sadar Hills, and Kuki Women Union Moltam Region have jointly declared the shutdown in Kuki-dominated areas along NH-37. However, RNSOM asserted that the entire route from Imphal to Jiribam is traditional Rongmei Naga land, contradicting the claims of the Kukis, whom they described as “new settlers.”
The student organization cautioned that any negative incidents resulting from the proposed shutdown would be the responsibility of the Kuki community. They emphasized that NH-37, a vital artery for Manipur, traverses Rongmei Naga land and serves all communities both within and outside the state.
RNSOM unequivocally stated that NH-37 should not be used as a platform for any acts of terrorism by any organization or individual, now or in the future.
Additionally, the group condemned the recent “barbaric indiscriminate attack” by Kuki militants who ambushed state police and the Chief Minister’s security personnel along NH-37. They cautioned that attacking peace-loving communities serving in the state forces could spark another crisis and be seen as an “open invitation to join the conflicts.”
