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By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Oct 18 : The Joint Tribe Students' Association (JTSA), representing the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme tribes, has urged the State Government to expedite the construction of the Koutruk-Konsakhul road and ensure the safety, security and uninterrupted connectivity of the people of Konsakhul Village.
In a statement, the JTSA said that Konsakhul has long depended on Imphal for essential services, including healthcare, education, trade and other basic necessities.
However, following the abduction of Naga people from Konsakhul at Lailon Vaiphei on May 13, 2026, which resulted in the loss of six lives, the existing route via Lailon Vaiphei and Leimakhong has become unsafe, it said.
The Association added that villagers face severe difficulties in reaching the State capital and accessing essential services.
Under these circumstances, the JTSA said that the alternative road connecting Koutruk and Konsakhul is not merely a development project but also a lifeline for the people of Konsakhul.
It said that the demand of the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills to halt the road construction within three days is deeply concerning.
Stating that the proposed alignment does not pass through any Kuki settlement, the JTSA added that the project should not be misconstrued as an attempt to provoke, threaten or undermine any community.
No community should be compelled to remain deprived of essential connectivity because of an ultimatum or an unresolved dispute, it said and added that access to healthcare, education, food supplies and other basic necessities is fundamental to human dignity and public welfare.
It went on to state that the safety and welfare of Konsakhul residents must not be compromised or made contingent upon the approval of any community or organisation.
In view of the "seriousness of the situation", the JTSA urged the State Government to expedite the construction of the Koutruk-Konsakhul road and provide adequate security to construction workers, machinery and equipment.
It also urged the Government to ensure safe and reliable access to Imphal for the people of Konsakhul until normal and secure connectivity is restored through the existing route.
Moreover, the JTSA appealed to the Government to direct the district administration and security forces to act impartially and firmly in accordance with the law and ensure that public infrastructure projects are not obstructed by unilateral ultimatums or threats.
It urged the Government to initiate consultations with civil society organisations and stakeholders concerned to address any grievances regarding the project through peaceful dialogue and create conditions for the uninterrupted completion of the road.
Emphasising that any development initiative intended to protect civilian lives and provide access to essential services should not become a source of confrontation, the JTSA appealed to all communities and organisations concerned to exercise restraint, respect the rule of law and refrain from actions that could further endanger civilians or deepen existing divisions.
The Government must recognise the urgency of the matter and act decisively to ensure that the people of Konsakhul are not left isolated, it said.