Imphal/Churachandpur: Two prominent Kuki-Zo student bodies—the Zomi Students’ Federation (ZSF) and the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO)—have called for a total shutdown of educational institutions and business establishments in parts of Manipur on May 3.
The day marks the second anniversary of the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state.
In a joint statement, the organisations urged the public to observe the day in solemn remembrance by closing schools, colleges, and markets, and by displaying black flags at their residences as a symbol of mourning.
The ethnic conflict, which began in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands.
Following months of unrest, President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh stepped down.
The state assembly, although elected until 2027, remains under suspended animation.
Commemorative events have also been planned, including a mass prayer at the Martyrs’ Cemetery and a public gathering at the Wall of Remembrance in Churachandpur district headquarters.
The student bodies have invited the public to participate in these observances.
Additionally, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has announced that May 3 will be marked as “Separation Day”—a moment of reflection and remembrance for the victims of the ongoing ethnic violence that continues to deeply affect the Kuki-Zo communities.
The ITLF said the day would feature prayers, speeches, a keynote address, and reports from various tribal organisations.
Meanwhile, in the Imphal Valley, the Meitei organisation COCOMI has also urged citizens to suspend all routine activities on May 3 and attend a public convention at Khuman Lampak Stadium to deliberate on the state’s future.
The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) similarly declared that May 3 will be observed as a “solemn day of remembrance and solidarity,” under the theme ‘Bridging Divides for a Shared Future’.
