Manipur: Blindfolded Man’s Body Found in Kangpokpi Amid Escalating NH-2 Blockade Protests
Imphal, July 2: The partially decomposed body of an unidentified man was recovered from a forested area at Parengba Khunthak in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Thursday, amid escalating tensions linked to the ongoing protests and blockade along National Highway-2.
According to police, the body was discovered within the jurisdiction of New Keithelmanbi Police Station. The deceased is estimated to be between 25 and 35 years of age and was found wearing blue jeans, a multi-coloured T-shirt, and a ring on one finger.
Preliminary observations revealed that the victim had been blindfolded and his hands were tied behind his back, indicating possible foul play. Police have launched an investigation to ascertain the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the death.
The body has been shifted to the mortuary of the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, for identification and post-mortem procedures. Authorities stated that if no claimant comes forward, the body will be disposed of in accordance with legal provisions after July 8.
The recovery comes at a time when Kangpokpi district remains tense due to the ongoing agitation by members of the Kuki-Zo community across Sadar Hills. Protesters have been staging an indefinite, round-the-clock demonstration at Gamgiphai following a recent confrontation with security forces.
The protest is centred on the continued blockade at Namduilong-Kanglatongbi and other stretches of National Highway-2. Demonstrators have organised 24-hour shifts to monitor vehicle movement, demanding that the government remove the blockades to restore free movement of people and ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) spokesperson Ng Lun Kipgen said the Kuki-Zo community is awaiting government action to clear areas they allege are under the control of those enforcing the blockade, particularly around Namduilong-Kanglatongbi. He maintained that the agitation will continue until unrestricted traffic is restored along the vital highway.
