Imphal, Oct. 19 -- Tensions between Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur's Kangpokpi district have increased over the construction of the Koutruk-Konsakhul road. The dispute comes amid a regional conflict that has claimed around 70 lives since February.

The Joint Tribe Students' Association (JTSA), which represents the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme Naga tribes, has urged the state government to speed up construction of the road to ensure uninterrupted connectivity to Konsakhul village.

However, the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills (KI-SWSH) has opposed the project and demanded an immediate halt to construction. The organisation claims that the road encroaches on land under its customary jurisdiction.

According to the JTSA, the alte...