Kukis threaten economic blockade

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