CoTU Moots Gamgiphai Checkpoint Reopening after Keithelmanbi Incident, Cautions Transporters Amid Ongoing Hostility

In a strong response to the tragic road accident at Keithelmanbi Military Colony on April 11, where a Meitei man concealed among sacks of potatoes was injured while en route to Imphal, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District, expressed deep shock over the presence of the individual and mooted the reopening of the Gamgiphai Checkpoint to resume strict vehicle checking.

The Committee recalled that women volunteers were earlier deployed at Gamgiphai Checkpoint to verify commuters traveling along National Highway-2 for security purposes—until the checkpoint was recently dismantled by security forces.

Despite the ongoing conflict, CoTU commended the residents of Keithelmanbi Military Colony for their humanitarian response, highlighting their adherence to traditional Kuki-Zo war ethics, which emphasize the protection of innocents, women, and children even during warfare. The Committee recalled multiple instances where innocent Meitei individuals, women, and children were rescued during the ongoing unrest and returned safely to their families with dignity.

However, the Committee expressed outrage at what it views as a deliberate crossing into Kuki-Zo territory, especially amid the community’s strong opposition to the Government’s Free Movement policy. CoTU stated that this act is not only alarming but also indicates a continued attempt to breach the fragile security of Kuki-Zo areas.

Vehemently condemning the reckless act of smuggling a Meitei individual through the area, CoTU warned that any recurrence of such incidents would be met with decisive and forceful action. The Committee described the event as a deliberate and provocative act, adding, “This may not be the first attempt—but it will be the last if we have our way.”

Issuing a stern reminder to truck drivers, transport unions, and other concerned authorities operating along National Highway-2, CoTU warned against transporting individuals from conflicting communities through sensitive areas, citing the potential for misunderstandings and dangerous flare-ups.

For any future violations, the Committee made it clear that full responsibility would lie with the truckers’ unions and the authorities involved, reiterating its commitment to act decisively to uphold security and accountability.

Calling for immediate action, CoTU urged the concerned authorities to deter, refrain from, and desist from permitting such violations within Kuki-Zo territories.

Following the Keithelmanbi incident, CoTU mooted to reopen the Gamgiphai Checkpoint and resume strict vehicle checks day and night to prevent further breaches of security.

“Gamgiphai Checkpoint has now become a vital necessity to prevent further border crossings and maintain security in the Kuki-Zo areas,” the statement read.

The Committee emphasized that the checkpoint is crucial to ensuring the safety and stability of the region, especially given the community’s firm opposition to the Free Movement policy and the heightened risks associated with border crossings.

Finally, CoTU made a fervent appeal to the entire Kuki-Zo community to remain vigilant and united, urging them to actively safeguard their territories and support security protocols to prevent such incidents from escalating into larger confrontation.