Imphal: The Joint Tribes’ Council Manipur (JTCM) on Friday announced a total shutdown along National Highway 37 with immediate effect, demanding the unconditional release of five Naga women allegedly arrested by a CRPF CoBRA team in Noney district.
In a statement, the JTCM strongly condemned what it described as the “illegal, biased and unjust” arrest of the women earlier on Friday morning. The arrested women were identified as Rose Kamei, Stella Thaimei, Khamsinliu Phaomai, Kumtharla Kamei and Ellen Kamei.
The council termed the arrest of the women, whom it described as peaceful and innocent, an act of “cowardice” and a direct assault on the democratic rights of the Naga people.
The JTCM alleged that the governments of India and Manipur have consistently failed to deliver justice for the six Naga men whose bodies were allegedly murdered and mutilated.
Instead of addressing the issue and holding those responsible accountable, it alleged, state forces have targeted Naga Village Guards and civilians in Naga-inhabited areas.
“The continuous targeting of our people, innocent Naga women and men, and our peaceful democratic movement have deeply hurt the sentiments and feelings of the Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei and Inpui communities,” the council said.
As part of its response, the JTCM said all movement of vehicles and goods along NH-37 would be strictly prohibited until further notice. It also announced a halt to centrally sponsored government projects within the territorial jurisdiction of the JTCM, which represents the Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei and Inpui communities.
The council demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the five women and warned of “stringent action” if they were not released.
It held the CRPF CoBRA team, the state government and the Government of India responsible for any consequences arising from the situation.
The development comes amid an economic blockade intensified by the United Naga Council (UNC) over the killing of six Naga men. Hundreds of vehicles have reportedly been stranded along the national highways, including in Noney district, as the blockade continues.
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