CoTU lifts month-long blockade, holds sit-in
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, October 04 2023:
The Committee on Tribal Unity Sadar Hills (CoTU) has decided to lift the month-long economic blockade imposed along two national highways passing through Kangpokpi district.
CoTU reinstated the economic blockade on August 21, demanding sufficient supplies of essential commodities for the Kuki-Zo communities in the hill areas of the state.
The blockade affected NH-2 connecting Imphal with Nagaland's Dimapur and NH 37 linking Imphal with Assam's Silchar.
The decision to lift the blockade was influenced by the progressing political dialogue between the Government of India and UPF-KNO, reaching an advanced stage.
CoTU general secretary Lamminlun Singsit expressed delight at the advanced stage of the political dialogue, highlighting submission of a charter of demand for a separate Union Territory by UPF and KNO leaders in New Delhi.
He mentioned the expectation of a prompt response from the Government of India to resolve the long standing political issues faced by the Kuki-Zo people.
In light of paving way for a political solution, CoTU decided to lift the economic blockade until further notice, he said, but asserted CoTU's readiness to reconsider agitation and protests if necessary.
Additionally, CoTU lifted the total shutdown along National Highway-37 following the finding of a missing Kuki-Zo individual from New Keithelmanbi area, as confirmed by the New Keithelmanbi police in Kang pokpi district.
CoTU expressed gratitude to the district police for their dedicated efforts in resolving the situation.
Simultaneously, CoTU's Women Wing organised a sit-in-protest against the arrest of Kuki-Zo individuals by central agencies like CBI and NIA.
The protestors demanded unconditional release of the arrested individuals and justice.
Protesters, primarily Kuki-Zo women from Saparmeina and nearby areas in Kangpokpi district, raised their voices through slogans and placards, advocating for justice and a separate administration.
They urged impartiality and fair treatment from central agencies, emphasising the need for equal consideration in arrests and investigations.
CoTU representatives expressed concern about alleged biased arrests and urged the central government not to misuse central agencies, emphasising the importance of upholding justice and the rule of law.
They called for equitable treatment and prompt action based on evidence.
The CoTU women's wing strongly condemned 'selective justice' and demanded the immediate release of the arrested Kuki-Zo individuals.