Imphal: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has called for a 12-hour total shutdown in protest against the state government’s inaction on their demand for the withdrawal of central forces from Saibol village in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district.
The shutdown will commence at 2:00 pm on January 2 and will continue for 12 hours, concluding at 2:00 am on January 3.
The demand follows a violent incident in Saibol, where security forces allegedly used tear gas and physical assault against Kuki-Zo women protesting the occupation of community bunkers by Central Forces.
As many as fifteen women were reportedly injured as a result of the crackdown.
This move will intensify the ongoing economic blockade on National Highway 2, a critical transportation route connecting the region to the rest of the country.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has condemned the government’s actions as a gross human rights violation.
“Our people have suffered enough. The use of excessive force on unarmed women is unacceptable,” a CoTU member stated.
The presence of central forces in Saibol has been met with sharp criticism from tribal communities, who perceive it as a blatant disregard for their rights and a violation of their dignity.
CoTU leaders contend that the deployment has not only disrupted daily life but has also fostered an atmosphere of fear and mistrust, thereby eroding the region’s fragile peace.
The Committee expressed deep frustration with the government’s continued indifference to the peaceful calls for dialogue, stating that they are left with no alternative but to intensify their protest.
The 12-hour shutdown will bring all vehicular movement to a standstill, close businesses, suspend schools and colleges, and shut down government offices throughout the region.
However, essential services, such as healthcare and emergency responses, will continue to function.
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Community leaders and human rights advocates have decried the actions of security forces, urging the government to address grievances before the situation spirals further out of control.
“This is not just our fight; it’s a fight for justice, dignity, and the preservation of peace in our communities,” CoTU stated.
