Sat Mar 08 11:59:34 UTC 2025: ## Manipur Buses Resume Trips Amidst Kuki Protests and Clashes
**Imphal, Manipur –** Civilian buses, escorted by security forces, resumed travel between districts in Manipur today, despite ongoing protests by Kuki tribes. The Kuki community is demanding a separate administration before allowing free movement, escalating tensions in the state currently under President’s Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
The resumption of bus services saw mine-resistant vehicles clearing blockades in Kangpokpi district. However, clashes erupted when security forces used batons to disperse Kuki women attempting to block the highway, resulting in injuries. Protests in several Kuki-dominated areas included stone-throwing, road blockades, and tyre burning. Despite the security escorts, two state transport buses were attacked in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
The central government has ordered an end to all road blockades. However, Kuki leaders, along with several militant groups, maintain their demand for a separate administration before agreeing to free movement. This follows months of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in over 250 deaths and nearly 50,000 internally displaced people since May 2023.
The conflict stems from a complex history of land rights disputes and political representation issues. While Kuki groups cite the May 2023 violence as justification for their demand for a separate administration or Union Territory, Meitei organizations question the threat to internally displaced persons seeking to return home. Kuki groups have a long history of advocating for a separate state, dating back to 1946-47, according to the World Kuki-Zo Intellectual Council. The situation remains tense, with the future of free movement within Manipur uncertain.
First Piper 