Imphal: In a bid to restore normalcy and alleviate public inconveniences, the Manipur State Government restored bus service after almost two years under security escort on March 8, 2025. The initiative, announced on March 7, aimed to facilitate the movement of essential goods and passengers across key routes in the state. However, the effort was met with mixed reactions, as violent protests erupted in certain areas, leading to clashes between security forces and protestors.
The Manipur State Transport (MST) buses, along with four LPG gas trucks and three oil tankers, successfully plied along the Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur and Churachandpur-Bishnupur-Imphal routes without any disturbances. This marked a positive step towards easing transportation challenges faced by the public.
However, the situation took a violent turn when an MST bus attempted to travel along the Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati route. At Gamgiphai in Kangpokpi District, a large mob began pelting stones at the bus, prompting security forces to intervene. Tear gas and minimal force were used to disperse the crowd. Protestors, including women and children, erected roadblocks by felling trees, placing boulders, and burning tires to obstruct the movement of the bus and security forces. Amidst the chaos, armed miscreants within the protestors reportedly opened fire at the security forces, who retaliated in self-defense.
The clashes resulted in injuries to 27 security personnel, two of whom are in critical condition. Sixteen protestors were also injured, and one protestor succumbed to their injuries. Additionally, two vehicles belonging to the security forces were set ablaze by the protestors. Despite the provocation, the security forces demonstrated significant restraint, using minimal force to control the violent mob and counter the armed miscreants. It should be mentioned that armed Kuki groups threatened to prevent the free movement initiatives of the central government in a viral video. Kuki civil society and armed groups are opposing the free movement initiatives until their demand for a separate administrative setup is not fulfilled.
The Manipur Government has strongly refuted claims made by the Kuki Zo Council and Kuki Students’ Organization in their press releases dated March 8, 2025. The organisations alleged that security forces were escorting local protestors, a claim the government has labeled as “totally baseless and false.”
The state government has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur, urging all stakeholders to cooperate and refrain from violence. The incident highlights the challenges faced in maintaining law and order while addressing public grievances in the region.
Manipur resumes bus services and free movement after two years
Earlier, in an important development for Manipur, bus services on key routes and the free movement of people across the state resumed on March 8 after a two-year hiatus. The resumption comes as security forces intensify operations against armed groups threatening peace and stability in the region.
Bus Services Restored
Bus services from Imphal to Senapati district via Kangpokpi district and from Imphal to Churachandpur district via Bishnupur district resumed operations on March 8. The buses departed from Imphal airport at 9 am, marking a milestone in restoring connectivity and normalcy in the state. The resumption follows instructions from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who directed officials to ensure the free movement of people across all routes in Manipur.
Security Forces Tackle Militant Threats
The restoration of services comes amid ongoing challenges posed by armed groups. Security forces recently disbursed Chin Kuki miscreants who attempted to block highways near the Kangpokpi border. These so-called village volunteers or militants have been threatening civilians who oppose their illegal demands, particularly the blockade of national highways, which serve as the lifeline for communities in Manipur’s landlocked valley districts.
Authorities have been urged to crack down on heavily armed Chin Kuki volunteers, who continue to intimidate civilians and disrupt essential services. Local leaders emphasise the need to uproot the warlords behind these groups, accusing them of propping up militants for vested interests.
Major Recovery of Weapons
In a significant breakthrough, intelligence-based joint operations launched by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles formations under Spear Corps, in coordination with Manipur Police, CRPF, and BSF, have yielded substantial results. Conducted across hill and valley districts, including Bishnupur, Senapati, Thoubal, Jiribam, Chandel, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Imphal East, and Imphal West, the operations on March 7 led to the recovery of 114 weapons. These included automatics, rifles, pistols, improvised mortars, IEDs, grenades, ammunition, and other war-like stores. The recovered items have been handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation.
The resumption of bus services and the crackdown on armed groups mark a crucial step toward restoring peace and stability in Manipur. However, challenges remain as authorities work to dismantle the networks fueling militancy and ensure the safety of civilians. The state government and security forces continue to prioritize the restoration of normalcy, with a focus on safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of all communities in Manipur.
