Senapati, Jan 28, 2026: The Naga People’s Organisation (NPO) has announced an immediate counter-bandh in response to the continued bandh enforced by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), alleging severe hardship to Naga commuters and violation of basic human rights.
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| Volunteers enforce a road blockade on a National Highway as part of a bandh called by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) |
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the NPO expressed strong dismay that the bandh has continued despite a joint appeal for peace and restraint earlier issued by the United Naga Council (UNC) and Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM). The organisation said the ongoing disruption has caused serious inconvenience to the public, particularly affecting people travelling for medical treatment and flight-related purposes.
The NPO stated that the prolonged shutdown has resulted in immense suffering to the general public and described the continued enforcement of the bandh as “highly condemnable, irresponsible, and unacceptable,” especially after appeals for peaceful resolution had already been made.
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Citing disregard for public welfare and violation of the right to free movement, the NPO said it was compelled to call for an immediate counter-bandh with effect from Wednesday. The organisation urged the authorities to take serious note of the situation and ensure the safety, dignity, and unrestricted movement of the public.
The NPO also appealed to the people to extend full cooperation, maintain discipline, and uphold unity during what it termed a critical period, stressing that public interest and humanitarian concerns must take precedence over all forms of protest.
The situation in parts of Manipur remains tense, with civil society groups and community organisations continuing to issue appeals for restraint, dialogue, and restoration of normalcy.
