Speakers described the national highways as “trenches of division” rather than lifelines connecting communities. Since the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023, citizens alleged that armed Kuki-aligned groups have blocked and diverted travel, cutting off essential access to food, medicines, education, and trade. Protesters warned that such restrictions amount to collective punishment and discrimination, potentially qualifying as crimes against humanity under international law.
The assembly demanded that all highways be declared neutral and demilitarized zones, monitored by independent oversight bodies, and cleared of checkpoints operated by non-state actors.
Humanitarian Crisis and Call for Return
The ongoing displacement of more than 60,000 individuals was highlighted as a humanitarian emergency. Families, many of whom have been living in relief camps for over two years, remain without access to proper shelter, healthcare, education, or livelihood. Several speakers described the deep trauma and psychological toll suffered by children and women.
The gathering called for the immediate and safe return of all displaced people to their original villages, along with compensation for losses, restoration of properties, and rebuilding of destroyed infrastructure. Speakers stressed that security guarantees, community reconciliation, livelihood support, and psychosocial care must be part of the reintegration process. For those who cannot return due to safety fears or total destruction of homes, alternative resettlement options were also demanded.
Scrapping the SoO Agreement
The Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups came under sharp public criticism. Protesters accused the agreement of enabling impunity, pointing to numerous violations such as illegal extortion, forced evictions, and militant occupation of territories.
Demands included the immediate scrapping of the SoO, disarmament and disbandment of all militant camps, and prosecution of offenders under both Indian and international law. Speakers also called for the restoration of full state authority across all areas of Manipur.
Towards an Inclusive Political Framework
The crowd called for a new and inclusive political framework that ensures equal rights, security, and representation for all communities in Manipur, emphasizing unity beyond ethnic divisions. Civil society groups, women’s organizations, student unions, youth bodies, and artisans were urged to join in peaceful civic action, including legal documentation, petitions, and international advocacy.
“The highways must serve as arteries of unity, not sieges,” said one speaker. “The displaced must return home. Peace cannot exist where impunity thrives.”
The People’s Mandate
As the assembly concluded, the message was clear: the people of Manipur will not accept silence or delay. Their non-negotiable demands include free movement, return of displaced persons, end to militant impunity under SoO, and a just, inclusive political solution. Citizens pledged to continue their struggle through lawful and peaceful means until these goals are achieved.
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