UNC says Manipur economic blockade will continue as talks seek demands on multiple issues

A high-level meeting chaired by Manipur’s Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and Home Minister Konthoujm Govindas was held in Senapati district on Monday with representatives of the United Naga Council (UNC). The talks brought together nine MLAs from the state ruling government, along with nine UNC representatives led by its president NG Lorho.

Government spokesperson MLA Thokchom Radheshyam said the first round of discussions was “fruitful and cordial.” He described the meeting as an ice-breaker and said more talks will be held to address several issues being raised by the council.

Discussion focused on blockade and the way forward

UNC president NG Lorho said the discussions with ministers and MLAs focused on the way forward to bring peace in Manipur. During the meeting, the UNC deliberated its four-point charter of demands. The government, according to the participants, requested that the UNC lift the ongoing economic blockade along national highways.

Lorho said the UNC will not end the blockade along the national highways until its demands are addressed and fulfilled. He also indicated that the council could take stringent actions if the demands are not met. The UNC’s position was reiterated that further talks should be held in Senapati rather than in Imphal.

Blockade in place since June

The UNC has enforced an economic blockade along national highways since June. The move followed the killing of six Naga men in Kangpokpi district, after they were allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13, 2026. The UNC has linked its blockade to seeking justice and to political demands listed in its charter.

The four demands discussed during the meeting include the removal of Nemcha Kipgen from the post of Deputy Chief Minister, the abrogation of the SoO agreement with Kuki groups, and declaring KNF (P) as a terrorist organisation. The charter also calls for further steps connected to the UNC’s broader concerns.