IMPHAL: The working committee of the Joint Tribes Council Manipur (JTCM) has announced an indefinite ban on the movement of goods-carrying vehicles along national highways passing through Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme areas.

The decision comes amid growing anger over the alleged lack of action in connection with the killing of six Naga men and the August 20 security crackdown on protesters in Kangpokpi district. In a statement, the JTCM said protests in Kangpokpi turned violent on Thursday after security forces allegedly used tear gas against demonstrators. Several people were injured during the confrontation.

The council expressed concern that despite the case being handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), those responsible for the killing of the six Naga men have not yet been identified.The JTCM also accused state and Central security forces of acting with bias, alleging that operations had disproportionately targeted Naga Village Guards on the basis of unverified reports.

The council further claimed that villagers in Naga-inhabited areas continued to face security threats from armed groups, while local defence volunteers were allegedly facing interference from security authorities.The JTCM called upon regional coordination units and local bodies to ensure peaceful enforcement of the indefinite ban.

It warned that the agitation could be intensified if the authorities failed to address the community’s demands for security, accountability and justice.The latest decision is expected to affect the movement of goods along key national highways passing through the Naga-inhabited areas, potentially disrupting the supply chain and connectivity in parts of the state.