Synopsis
The Kuki-Zo Council has lifted the indefinite shutdown in Manipur after five days of protests against the resumption of bus services. The council stresses ongoing opposition to these services until justice is served for the Kuki-Zo people.Key Takeaways
- Shutdown lifted after 5 days.
- Kuki-Zo Council remains opposed to bus services.
- Justice for the Kuki-Zo community is a priority.
- Violence during protests caused injuries and fatalities.
- Meetings held with government officials for resolution.
Imphal, March 13 (NationPress) The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the leading body representing the tribals in Manipur, declared on Thursday that the indefinite shutdown initiated to protest the restart of bus services between the state capital Imphal and the hill districts has been lifted. The shutdown was first called on March 9 due to police actions in the tribal areas on March 8.
KZC’s Information Secretary Khaikhohauh Gangte stated that the decision to lift the shutdown followed thorough discussions within the council.
“Nevertheless, it is crucial to emphasize that although the shutdown has been lifted, the Kuki-Zo community will firmly oppose the movement of bus services as announced by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), as it undermines the justice process,” he informed the press.
Gangte asserted that until justice is appropriately served for the Kuki-Zo people, any attempt to facilitate unrestricted bus services will be met with strong resistance.
“The Kuki-Zo Council is unwavering in its commitment to ensure that the sacrifices made by our martyrs, including Lalgouthang Singsit, are honored through the pursuit of rightful justice for the Kuki-Zo community—a separate political administration to guarantee justice, peace, and progress for our people,” he added.
On March 8, clashes occurred in Kangpokpi and several other districts, resulting in injuries to at least 43 individuals, including 27 security personnel, and the tragic death of protester Singsit as tribal organizations opposed the resumption of bus services intended to ease public inconvenience and restore normalcy in the state.
Gangte mentioned that Singsit was buried on Thursday at the Kuki-Zo Martyr Cemetery in Phaijang in Sadar Hills.
“His martyrdom will not be in vain, and we vow to persist in our quest for justice and dignity on behalf of all Kuki-Zo individuals,” he stated.
Since March 10, tribal organizations have conducted numerous meetings with government officials regarding the shutdown's conclusion.
Following MHA's directive, the Manipur government announced on March 7 that passenger bus services between Imphal and several districts would resume the following day.
Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh confirmed that bus services would restart on the morning of March 8 across four routes linking five districts—Imphal, Senapati, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, and Churachandpur. A significant presence of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel escorted vehicles from the Manipur State Transport Corporation (MSTC). Despite the security escort, tribal activists targeted the buses, including a vehicle heading to Senapati district in Kangpokpi, leading to substantial violence.
