Subjects:

• GS-2: Governance & Internal Security: Public Order, Federal Structure
• GS-3: Infrastructure: Road Networks & Connectivity

Key Points

Ethnic Conflict & Highway Disruption

• Female demonstrators halted traffic on National Highway-2 in Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts.
• The Kuki-Zo community spearheaded the protest, opposing the free movement of vehicles policy.
• This follows a violent clash between security personnel and Kuki-Zo individuals, resulting in one death.

Government Actions & Approach

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah is actively overseeing developments.
• Authorities are enforcing unrestricted vehicle movement on NH-2 and NH-37 despite resistance.
• Parliament’s Budget Session may debate imposing President’s Rule in Manipur.

Public Response & Issues

• Kuki-Zo regions saw civil society groups enforce an ongoing shutdown.
• Protesters torched police vehicles amid the unrest.
• Allegations surfaced of security forces using disproportionate force and bias against the Kuki-Zo population.

Impact on Transport & Economy

• State Transport (MST) buses restarted on major routes but faced blockades.
• Highways remain vital for delivering essentials and sustaining supply lines.
• Prolonged unrest could deepen ethnic divides and disrupt daily life.

Insights & Path Ahead

• Manipur’s ethnic rift poses a persistent challenge to governance and stability.
• The free movement policy seeks to improve access but requires efforts toward ethnic harmony and dialogue.
• Enhanced security collaboration and trust-building between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups are critical to avert further unrest.

Mains Practice Question

“Examine the effects of ethnic strife in Manipur on governance and national security. Propose strategies to harmonize law enforcement with community reconciliation.“