GUWAHATI: The 97-day “economic blockade” in Manipur is likely to be lifted in two days. The United Naga Council (UNC), which enforced the blockade on two national highways – lifelines of Manipur – since November 1, will discuss the issue at its presidential council meeting today (Tuesday).
Similarly, the Manipur government is likely to secure the release of UNC’s arrested president Gaidon Kamei and publicity secretary SK Stephen. Both are currently in judicial custody after having been arrested for spearheading the blockade.
“Their (UNC) condition is that the two persons should be released unconditionally. Simultaneously, they will decide on lifting the blockade at their presidential council meeting. If they agree to lift the blockade, then the government of Manipur will move court to secure the duo’s release,” Manipur chief secretary O Nabakishor told Express.
“Lifting of blockade may happen or may not happen. We expect that they will decide in favour of lifting it. We are prepared to move court to secure the release of the two persons,” he added.
Both UNC and Manipur government purportedly softened their stand at their tripartite meeting held with Central government in New Delhi on February 3.
Nabakishor said the UNC’s response at the meeting had been “very positive”. Similarly, UNC general secretary Milan Shimray said the talks were a good beginning.