United Naga Council intensifies highway blockade in Manipur

The United Naga Council (UNC) has intensified an indefinite inter-district economic blockade in Manipur, targeting goods-laden vehicles on four major National Highways: NH-2, NH-202, NH-37, and NH-102A. The escalation began at 1 a.m. on Wednesday following an emergency meeting in Ukhrul.

The blockade is a protest against the government’s perceived failure to provide justice regarding the May 13 incident in Leilon Vaiphei, where six Naga civilians were allegedly abducted, killed, and mutilated. The UNC is demanding accountability for those involved and the removal of Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen.

While the blockade aims to disrupt commerce, the UNC stated that vehicles carrying essential services—including medical supplies, media, power, telecommunications, and water supply—will be exempted from the restrictions.