The Indian city of Manipur has been the site of an economic blockade for nearly three months now. Organized by members of the Naga ethnic group, it’s in protest of their rebel leader being stopped from visiting his hometown in the region last April.
And now food isn’t all that’s short in supply, but fuel. And so far, there is no sign of relief.
[Abungcha K., Local]:
"The people of Manipur are suffering a lot. The government must deliver all essential commodities to the people now, by hook or crook, by airlifting food, medicine and fuel."
Thousands of two-wheelers, cars, trucks and buses have been lining up at outlets across Manipur to receive their ration of fuel.
Fuel is being distributed by state officials, and is available only at a few selected outlets in Manipur.
[L. Kunjakeshwor Singh, Local]:
"It will cause more problems for the public if such distribution takes place after an interval of 10 or more days. In terms of essential commodities, and in the agricultural works, absence of diesel has stopped the process of cultivation work. Even the movement of vehicles is also severely restricted."
Sources say the present situation shows little sign of improvement and that what commodities are left will last only for a few more days.
In May, the Manipur state government had prevented a rebel ethnic leader from entering his hometown in Ukrul district of the state.
As a mark of protest against the government decision, the All Naga Students Association has blocked the arterial National Highway 39 since April 11, literally cutting off Manipur.
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