The Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) has declared an indefinite ban on the movement of Kukis within the foothill regions of Naga-inhabited areas in Manipur, effective from midnight of July 18, 2025. This decision follows a period of growing tensions and disputes over land rights and security concerns in the region.
The FNCC, in a formal notification to Naga civil society organizations, stated that the decision was made after careful consideration of what it describes as "growing threats" to the ancestral lands, identity, and future of the Naga people. The committee views the ban as a "peaceful but firm protest" against these perceived threats.
The FNCC has raised several key concerns:
The FNCC has called upon Naga bodies and tribal councils to unite in defending their ancestral domain and has appealed for public cooperation and solidarity. The committee expressed hope that collective vigilance will lead to peace, respect, and justice for the Naga people.
The ban has raised concerns about potential disruptions to movement and commerce in the region. The FNCC has not yet released details on how the bandh will be enforced, but it is expected to involve measures to restrict the movement of people and goods.
The situation is further complicated by a power infrastructure delay, including the incomplete 132/33kV power substation, and allegations of illegal road construction and land encroachment by Kuki groups. The FNCC and allied organizations have warned that if their demands are not met by July 23, they will intensify their agitation through road blockades and other forms of protest.
On July 18, 2025, a massive rally was held in the Tamenglong district headquarters, demanding government intervention to stop the road construction, which protestors termed as "illegal". Protestors carried signs expressing frustration with the government's failure to address local issues. A joint memorandum was submitted to the Governor of Manipur through the Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong.
