Kohima, April 24: Tension still remains high in Ukhrul district in Manipur as the standoff continues between security forces and womenfolk at Bundung village.
Since Thursday there is standoff between the Assam Rifles and women of Bundung village near the Indo-Myanmar border, as security forces wanted to evict cadres of National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) who are in a camp at a place known as Kangkum. Womenfolk are not allowing security forces to proceed further towards the NSCN camp, which is not a designated but noted camp.
Sources said women have blocked the highway leading to the NSCN camp area despite reinforcement of additional security personnel of Assam Rifles, police commandoes and women police. Women and COVID-19 vigilantes from Hongbi, Pohoram, Chongdan and nearby villagers have blocked the road and are not allowing security personnel to proceed further.
There are reports of negotiations going on between the parties to defuse the situation. A senior police official is at the site to assess the situation.
Kangkum is some 6 km from Bundung village.
The area is known for transit route for militants to cross over Myanmar and security forces have been watchful on this area.
NSCN source said the camp is not a designated but noted camp agreed with the Union Government, and now Manipur Government is trying to evict the cadres. NSCN insider said they will not leave the camp as both the parties have agreed for a noted camp. This camp is said to be the oldest camp since ceasefire in 1997.
Sources said womenfolk are stopping security forces from proceeding further to avoid unwanted situation during the uncertainty period due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Page News Service)
