The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a detailed report regarding the restrictions on free movement in Manipur, a state grappling with ongoing ethnic tensions. This action from the NHRC underscores the persistent concerns over human rights violations and the need for accountability in addressing the challenges faced by the people of Manipur.
Manipur has been marred by ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023, leading to significant loss of life, displacement, and a breakdown of trust between the communities. In response to the unrest, restrictions were imposed on the movement of people, impacting trade, livelihoods, and access to essential services. While the government has taken steps to restore normalcy, including reinforcements in law and order, setting up relief camps, and announcing compensation packages, the situation remains complex and sensitive.
In March 2025, the central government ordered the opening of free movement across the state, aiming to rebuild trust between the hill-residing Kukis and valley-residing Meiteis. Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed officials to ensure unrestricted travel and also instructed the completion of border fencing at designated entry points with Myanmar. Public buses escorted by central forces were planned to run between the valley and hill regions, and helicopter services were launched.
However, tribal groups have expressed strong opposition to the free movement policy, demanding a separate administration for hill districts. The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) presented an eight-point resolution to the central government, emphasizing their demand for a separate administration. Tensions escalated, with protests erupting in various districts and violent confrontations occurring between security forces and protesters.
The NHRC's intervention comes in the wake of persistent reports of blockades and restrictions on National Highway-2, a crucial lifeline for the Imphal Valley. The commission has issued a strongly-worded order, directing a fresh, time-bound inquiry into the continuing blockade of National Highway-2 in Kangpokpi district and demanding a comprehensive action-taken report by January 4, 2026. The NHRC has emphasized that national highways cannot be held hostage by ethnic fault lines and treated the ethnic blockade as a continuing human rights emergency.
The commission's directive highlights the plight of numerous citizens confined within the Imphal Valley, deprived of their fundamental right to move freely throughout the territory of India. The NHRC has also sought reports from the governments of Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura regarding attacks on journalists, underscoring its concern for freedom of the press and protection of human rights defenders.
However, the NHRC itself has faced criticism regarding its effectiveness and response to the Manipur crisis. According to an ANNI report in December 2025, the NHRC has been the least effective National Human Rights Institution among its Asian counterparts. The report cited inaction on gross human rights violations, delays in addressing the violence in Manipur, and gaps in awarding compensation to victims. The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has also written to the NHRC, requesting that it reject the action taken reports submitted by the Manipur government, alleging state complicity in the ethnic conflict.
The NHRC's recent actions and directives signify a renewed focus on the human rights situation in Manipur. The call for reports and investigations indicates a commitment to accountability and the restoration of constitutional rights. However, the effectiveness of these efforts will depend on the cooperation of the state and central governments, as well as a comprehensive approach to addressing the underlying ethnic tensions and grievances. The NHRC's intervention, while welcome, must be accompanied by concrete actions to ensure lasting peace, justice, and the protection of human rights for all the people of Manipur.
