Tensions intensified along National Highway-37 in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Monday, June 22 after a confrontation broke out between Kuki demonstrators enforcing an emergency highway shutdown and security personnel deployed in the New Keithelmanbi area. At least three persons were reported critically injured in the incident.

The shutdown, called by Kuki civil society organisations in Kangpokpi, entered its second consecutive day amid growing opposition to what protestors alleged were selective security operations targeting Kuki-Zo inhabited villages.

Large groups of demonstrators assembled along the strategically important Imphal–Jiribam highway, restricting vehicular movement and demanding an immediate halt to the ongoing security operations.

According to local accounts, the situation escalated when security personnel initiated efforts to disperse the gathering and restore movement along the highway. Crowd-control measures, including reported use of blank firing, smoke bombs and other anti-riot interventions, led to panic and unrest among the protestors.

The Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills (KISW-SH) condemned the action taken by security forces and alleged that protestors participating in the shutdown were dispersed using tear gas shells, blank ammunition and baton charges.

In a statement, the organisation described the response as excessive and claimed that three individuals sustained critical injuries during the confrontation.

The organisation further alleged that authorities had failed to address public concerns and instead responded with force during what it characterised as a democratic protest.

KISW-SH stated that the emergency shutdown was organised to oppose what it described as discriminatory and targeted combing operations being carried out exclusively in Kuki-dominated areas.

The organisation also alleged that the ongoing ethnic tensions were linked to the NSCN-IM and its alleged proxy, the ZUF-Kamson faction, and demanded legal action against those it identified as responsible.

Warning of further mobilisation, the organisation stated that protests would continue unless authorities initiate action addressing their concerns and ensure accountability.

The latest confrontation highlights continuing tensions in parts of Kangpokpi district, where allegations surrounding security operations have led to highway blockades, shutdowns and sustained public demonstrations.