Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, Mar 12: Normal life remained disrupted in Manipur's Kuki-Zo-dominated areas for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday due to an indefinite shutdown called by the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC). The protest, led by the apex tribal body, is against the resumption of bus services between state capital Imphal and the hill districts, as well as the police action in tribal areas on March 8.
According to police officials in Imphal, the situation in Kuki-Zo tribal regions—especially in Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts—remained tense yet under control, with no fresh incidents reported following the clashes with security forces last Saturday.
While the shutdown continues, restrictions were eased for a few hours in Churachandpur town to allow residents to purchase essential supplies and carry out urgent activities. Meanwhile, protests and demonstrations led by KZC activists, tribal organizations, and women’s groups took place in various parts of Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and neighboring areas.
Security forces—including the Army, Central paramilitary, and state police—have been heavily deployed across Kuki-Zo tribal regions, such as Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Pherzawl, and the mixed-population Jiribam district, which borders Assam. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and no further violence has been reported.
Amid the tensions, multiple rounds of discussions between Kuki-Zo tribal leaders and government officials have taken place since Monday at the Deputy Commissioner's office in Churachandpur. These meetings, involving representatives from the KZC, the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), and other organizations, focused on key demands, including the March 8 clashes, the call for Union Territory status with an Assembly for tribal areas, and an end to hostilities.
A tribal leader acknowledged that despite extensive deliberations, no concrete resolution had been reached. "Our leaders remain firm on our demands, and so does the government. Tuesday's meeting was adjourned for further discussions in the future," the leader said.
The March 8 clashes, which erupted over the resumption of bus services between Imphal and the hill districts, resulted in 43 injuries—including 27 security personnel—and the death of a protester in Kangpokpi. The move to restart transportation was part of government efforts to restore normalcy in the state.
The COTU, a key constituent of the KZC, continues to press for its demands, including the removal of the Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police, the cancellation of bus services, and an official apology for the death of protester Lalgouthang Singsit in accordance with customary tribal laws.