Civil society organisations say protests will continue until those responsible for the killings are arrested and detained individuals are released
Imphal: The indefinite shutdown across Kuki-Zo-dominated areas of Manipur has been extended from midnight of May 25, following a decision taken jointly by Kuki Inpi Manipur and several civil society organisations based in Kangpokpi.
In a statement issued on Monday, Kuki Inpi Manipur said the decision was finalised during a Joint Council meeting after authorities allegedly failed to respond despite nearly 12 days of protests, shutdowns and public appeals.
The agitation is linked to the killing of three Kuki-Zo church leaders and the alleged detention of several members of the community. “The shutdown will continue until the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice,” the organisation stated.
The group also demanded the “safe and unconditional release” of all detained Kuki-Zo individuals, accusing the authorities of not adequately addressing the concerns raised by the community.
Civil society organisations warned that protest programmes could intensify further if the government continues to remain unresponsive.
However, the organisations clarified that essential services would remain outside the purview of the shutdown. Healthcare facilities, medical emergencies, media operations and security-related movements will continue without disruption.
Calling for public support, the organisations said the movement was aimed at “restoring peace, ensuring justice and protecting human dignity” in the region.
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