Economic Blockade Still Felt in Manipur, India

2010-06-18 86

The people of India's northeastern Manipur state are still feeling the effects of an economic blockade, which was lifted early this week.

Members of Naga ethnic groups agreed to suspend a two-month-long blockade on Monday.

The blockade of an essential highway has caused food and fuel shortages in the troubled state.

A liter of gasoline is selling for almost double while food prices have soared and medicines are scarce.

Long lines could be seen outside the few shops that have opened their shutters.

Tribal groups from Nagaland had blocked the supplies because the Manipuris stopped the Naga’s separatist leader from visiting his birthplace.

The Naga Students Federation said it had suspended the blockade after Prime Minister Singh agreed to look into Naga grievances.

The Nagas have been fighting Indian forces for a separate state carved out of the northeastern region, including parts of Manipur.

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