Manipur: After Modi’s Visit Kuki-Zo Council Refutes Reopening of NH-2
Two days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Manipur, reports emerged that National Highway-2 (NH-2), the Imphal–Dimapur route, had been reopened for free movement. The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) quickly pushed back, saying it had not permitted unrestricted traffic and that the highway’s status remains restricted — a claim that contradicts earlier statements from government sources and has generated confusion on the ground.
What the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) actually said
The KZC issued a categorical clarification after media reports suggested the highway had been reopened. Their message was plain: they did not grant permission for “free movement” on NH-2 and any reports suggesting otherwise were a misinterpretation of earlier statements. The KZC emphasized that unrestricted movement could breach agreed buffer protocols and potentially escalate tensions — in short, they framed the denial as a safety measure rather than mere obstruction.
Why is this important? The KZC is a major hill-area stakeholder; when it says something about NH-2, local communities listen. If the council is urging caution, people will respond by staying put or by setting up road controls — which in turn affects supply chains, medical access and mobility.
5 FAQs
Q1: Has NH-2 been officially reopened for all traffic?
A1: No — while some government statements suggested reopening, the Kuki-Zo Council explicitly denied permitting free movement and said the highway was not opened for unrestricted traffic. Cross-checking both central and local statements is essential.
Q2: Which places does NH-2 connect and why is it important?
A2: NH-2 links Imphal and Dimapur and passes through strategic hill districts — it’s vital for moving essential supplies, commercial goods and people across parts of the northeast. Disruptions on this route have immediate economic and humanitarian impacts.
Q3: Why would the KZC block or restrict a national highway?
A3: Local councils like the KZC may restrict movement for security reasons, to enforce buffer arrangements, to protect communities or as leverage in political negotiations. Their actions typically reflect local risk assessments and constituent pressures.
Q4: How can residents and journalists confirm the real status of NH-2?
A4: Verify official notices (Centre/state), seek local council releases (like the KZC), monitor credible on-ground reporting and look for visual evidence or transport union confirmations. Use multiple sources before assuming the road is operational.
Q5: What would make the reopening durable and safe?
A5: A durable reopening requires joint verification teams, defined conditional permissions, robust security guarantees, transparent communications and independent monitoring to ensure compliance and rapid response to violations.
