Tension flares-up in Senapati

Security convoy prevented by irate Naga public to proceed ahead towards Mao gate

  Newmai News Network Senapati | December 10   A large number of security convoy moving towards Mao Gate located at Manipur-Nagaland border was prevented from proceeding further at Senapati town late this evening by irate Naga public.   On learning that a combined convoy of Manipur police, CRPF and IRB were heading towards Mao Gate from Imphal to escort stranded goods trucks, the public used loud speakers asking the people to come out and drive back the security force convoy.   Minutes later, a large number of people came out and blocked the highway. On reaching Senapati town, the moving security convoy halted on seeing the large number of people. Though tension ran high, there was no physical confrontation. After an hour of halting at Senapati town, the security convoy returned towards Imphal without proceeding ahead.   The Nagas under the banner of the United Naga Council (UNC) began the blockade on the important two highways of Imphal-Dimapur route and Imphal-Jiribam route since November 1 protesting against the Manipur government’s move to give district status to Sadar Hills and Jiribam.   The situation was aggravated after the Manipur Government arrested the president and publicity secretary of UNC on November 25 for allegedly imposing the ongoing economic blockade and also for different cases of arson committed in the course of the blockade.   On December 9, an uncompromising Manipur Government under the chief minister-ship of Ibobi Singh, ignoring the ongoing intense protest, had announced the creation of seven (7) new districts, which include Jiribam, Kamjong, Kakching, Tengnoupal, Noney, Pherzawl and Kangpokpi.   In the next few days, various Naga frontal organisations under the aegis of the UNC have planned to chalk out strategies against the actions of the Manipur government.