The Kuki National Front is protesting against the reported "encounter" by the Assam Rifles on January 28.
The Kuki activists have announced an economic blockade for five days
with effect from Wednesday in protest against the failure of the Manipur
government to disclose the report of the magisterial inquiry into the
killing of two persons on January 28 by personnel of 8 Assam Rifles at
Kadangband.
Five Kukis were travelling in a jeep which was intercepted by the
personnel. In the "encounter" one person Khupnelilal Kipgen, the driver
and Robert Hesei Kigpen, a rebel of the Kuki National Front which is a
signatory to the suspension of operations with the union government were
killed and three others wounded.
There were protests as the activists said that it was not an encounter.
The government announced a magisterial inquiry and the activists set a
deadline of 15 days. A statement issued by the activists on Sunday said
that since the government failed to disclose the report it was imposing
the economic blockade. They would have declared a general strike. But
they took into consideration the examinations which began which began
from Monday.
Due to the blockade there are fears of fuel shortage and price rise of essential commodities.
Since both the highways will be blocked and nothing can be brought to
Manipur prices will soar and fuel and other consumer items will not be
available.
Police said that one hand gun was recovered from one of those killed.
Three others who were wounded are now in hospital