Manipur movement curbs persist as NH-2 opens, peace process wary
Manipur movement curbs persist as NH-2 opens, peace process wary
Opening of National Highway-2 stirs unease in Manipur's peace process as KNO and UPF caution against interpreting it as unrestricted movement, amid a renewed Centre ceasefire.
The reopening of National Highway-2, a vital supply route for Manipur, has stirred unease about the peace process. While the road is now open, observers say it does not automatically translate into free movement across communities, and the broader security situation remains sensitive.
Kuki-Zo armed groups, the KNO and UPF, warned against reading the reopening as acceptance of unrestricted movement between communities. They emphasised caution around mobility as negotiations continue toward a political solution and to safeguard territorial integrity, in the wake of a renewed ceasefire agreement with the Centre. The renewed ceasefire and ongoing talks suggest progress, but the decision to reopen NH-2 has not ended curbs on movement. Authorities say restrictions remain important for security and governance in the region.
