Manipur: Economic blockade in Kuki-Zo areas underway

In Manipur, an economic blockade by a tribal body was underway in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in the state on Friday to protest against alleged action by security forces on women in a village in Kangpokpi district, officials said on Friday. Another organisation, Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), also observed a 24-hour shutdown in the district to protest against the alleged baton charge on women on December 31 in Saibol village.
The tribal body Kuki-Zo Council said the economic blockade that started from midnight of January 2 would continue till 2 am on Saturday to protest against "disregard for tribal rights and dignity". 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 cry against indifference and oppression, calling on all affected communities to unite in solidarity for justice. The Kuki body has asked their people in all districts to raise common slogans “for justice and to stand united in solidarity”.
The Kuki-Zo Council has endorsed the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), a Kuki group active in Kangpokpi district which has called for the economic blockade, a total shutdown, and a mass public protest at the district headquarters. The Council was recently formed as the political platform for Kuki-Zo communities in all districts of Manipur.