Security Force Raid in Manipur Triggers Regional Infrastructure Shutdown

A gunfight erupted Wednesday in Bitiang village, Noney district, after security forces raided an illegal Naga Volunteer Group training camp. The clash left one member of the Naga Village Guard dead and five others injured, including three volunteers and two personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) CoBRA battalion who sustained splinter injuries.

In response to the military action, the Working Committee of the Joint Tribes Council (JTC) of Manipur declared an emergency shutdown of all national highways, railway projects, and national projects within the territories of the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme Naga communities. The committee and the Naga Village Guard-Eastern Command accused the CoBRA unit and the Zeliangrong United Front-Jenchui of attacking the volunteers.

Tribal leaders stated the shutdown will continue until the Government of India takes action regarding the Bitiang clash and the killing of six Naga civilians on May 13.