Imphal, May 25: Kuki Inpi Manipur and several Kuki-Zo civil society organisations have jointly decided to extend the ongoing total shutdown across all Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in Manipur, citing alleged government inaction over recent killings and detentions linked to the ongoing tensions in the state.
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The
decision was taken during a Joint Council Meeting held by Kuki Inpi Manipur and
civil society organisations based in Kangpokpi district. According to a press
statement issued from the KIM Secretariat on May 25, the shutdown extension
came into effect from midnight of May 25, 2026.
In the
statement, the organisations said the decision was necessitated by what they
described as the continued silence, indifference and inaction of the government
despite twelve consecutive days of public shutdowns, democratic protests and
repeated appeals for justice by the Kuki-Zo community.
The
organisations alleged that the protests were launched following the killing of
three Kuki-Zo church leaders and the continued detention of Kuki-Zo individuals
allegedly held hostage by Naga civil society organisations led by the Senapati
District Students’ Association (SDSA).
According
to the statement, the Joint Council unanimously resolved that the shutdown
would continue until those responsible for the killing of the church leaders
are thoroughly investigated, identified and brought to justice.
The
council also demanded the immediate, safe and unconditional release of all
Kuki-Zo individuals allegedly under illegal detention.
Kuki Inpi
Manipur stated that the government’s failure to meaningfully address the
concerns and demands raised by the Kuki-Zo people had become a serious affront
to the dignity, suffering and collective pain of the community.
The
statement further warned that Kuki Inpi and Kuki-Zo civil society organisations
may intensify the ongoing democratic movement and adopt more stringent measures
if the government continues to remain indifferent to their demands and
aspirations.
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Despite
the shutdown, the organisations clarified that essential and emergency
services, including medical emergencies, healthcare services, media operations
and security-related movements, would remain exempted.
The
organisations also appealed to the public to continue extending solidarity,
cooperation and support in what they described as a collective struggle for
justice, truth, peace and protection of human dignity.
The statement was issued by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary, Information and Publicity of Kuki Inpi Manipur.
