ITLF calls Ccpur shutdown, police refute firing claim
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 31 2023:
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) on Thursday declared an emergency shutdown in Churachandpur (Lamka) district, effective immediately.
The shutdown comes in response to a series of intense attacks allegedly carried out by Meitei groups on Kuki-Zo villages in the district.
The affected areas include Lonphai, Khousabung, Kangvai, and Sugnu in Manipur's Lamka district.
The attacks have resulted in widespread panic and disruption, and the ITLF has taken the unprecedented step of declaring an emergency shutdown in order to ensure the safety and security of the local residents, ITLF said.
The Forum said the shutdown will remain in effect until further notice.
During this time, essential emergency services such as medical assistance, police support, water supply, electricity, and press services will continue to operate without interruption, it added.
The decision to declare an emergency shutdown reflects the severity of the situation and the ITLF's commitment to protecting the lives and well-being of the people within the affected areas.
ITLF Media & Publicity department issued this statement, highlighting the necessity of this action to mitigate the ongoing threat posed by the Meiteis.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi district also condemned alleged attack on Kuki-Zo villages in Churachandpur and Chandel districts in the strongest term.
CoTU alleged 'unprovoked and vicious attack' against Kuki-Zo villages of Longphai, Khousabung, Kangvai, and others in Churachandpur district and villages under Sugnu police station which, however, fall under Chandel district, by the Meetei militia or militants.
While appealing to the valley-based armed organisations to refrain from such atrocities in the hill areas dominated by the Kuki-Zo communities, CoTU urged the authorities concerned to book the culprits and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Similarly, ITLF also levelled similar allegations and declared emergency shutdown in the entire district of Churachandpur.
Meanwhile, a statement issued by police control room clarified that there are no firing incidents at Kangvai and Sugnu.
However, exchange of fire did occur between armed miscreants at Lonphai and Khousabung.
Security forces deployed in the area responded and subsequently firing has subsided.
Situation is tense but under control, the statement added.