Kangpokpi, Jan 28: The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) on Wednesday announced the suspension of the 24-hour total shutdown imposed along AH-2 and NH-37, with immediate effect, following positive assurances from the concerned authorities.
In a press communiqué issued on January 28, COTU said the shutdown was initially enforced from midnight of January 27 in protest against the government’s inaction in apprehending the perpetrators involved in the burning of K. Songlung Village (Part II). The incident was allegedly carried out by the ZUF-S Kamson group on Republic Day.
ALSO READ: Naga People’s Organisation Calls Counter-Bandh Over Continued Disruption to Public Movement
The Committee expressed appreciation to the general public, church leaders, and civil society organisations for supporting the shutdown. However, after detailed deliberations, COTU resolved to reconsider and suspend the agitation.
COTU further stated that it, along with its stakeholders, deliberated on the joint declaration made by the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) at Kangpokpi on January 27, aimed at promoting amicable dialogue and cordial relations between tribal communities.
The Committee unanimously decided to uphold the decision taken by the two tribal apex bodies in the interest of maintaining peace and harmony, and subsequently suspended the shutdown along the two national highways.
