Guwahati/Imphal
Vehicular movement and transportation of essential commodities through Kuki-Zo inhabited areas got restricted on Friday due to the economic blockade imposed by the Kuki-Zo Council against the alleged baton charge on women on December 31 in Saibol village even as another organisation, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), also observed a 24-hour shutdown in the Kangkopki district to protest against the incident.
“The Kuki-Zo Council would intensify its protest if the women injured in the alleged baton charge by security forces are not compensated,” the tribal body’s Chairman Henlienthang Thanglet said in Churachandpur. The Kuki-Zo Council was recently formed as the political platform for Kuki-Zo communities in all districts of Manipur.
The protest is also against the alleged disregard for tribal rights and dignity by the state government and Centre. The Kuki-Zo Council urged all tribes, civil society groups, and organisations within Kuki-Zo communities to stand united in demanding justice and resisting what they described as “systemic oppression.”
This announcement follows the Kuki-Zo Council’s full endorsement of the CoTU’s call for a total shutdown in Kangpokpi district and mass public protests at Kangpokpi District Headquarters on Friday.
A key demand includes the immediate withdrawal of central forces stationed in Saibol, reflecting the growing tensions between tribal communities and Government authorities. The Kuki-Zo Council emphasised that the blockade represents a collective protest against indifference and oppression, calling on all affected communities to unite in solidarity for justice.
Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh welcomed the appointment of former Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the 19th Governor, saying his appointment reflects the Central government’s seriousness in resolving the State’s issues.
“Appointing one of the most intelligent and competent persons as the Governor of Manipur during this time shows serious concern of the central government in resolving Manipur issues. I know Ajay Kumar Bhalla, he is well-experienced and held many important positions in the central government, mainly the Home Department. He knows about the Manipur issue very well. I extend my heartfelt best wishes for his successful tenure and look forward to working together towards a peaceful and prosperous Manipur under his leadership,” Biren Singh said in a post on X.
Apart from the Chief Minister, his council of ministers, and government and police officials attended the oath ceremony at the Raj Bhawan in Imphal.
