CoTU declares 12-hr total shutdown in KPI today
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, December 28 2024: Condemning the attacks in Bungpi region, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has declared a 12-hour total shutdown across Kangpokpi district on Sunday from 6 am to 6 pm.

CoTU informed that all vehicular movements along the National Highway-2 passing through Kangpokpi district will be strictly prohibited and all commercial establishments and markets will remain closed, while calling for solidarity among the tribal population to send a clear message to the authorities and perpetrators.

"This is not just a protest; it is a cry for justice and survival," stated CoTU, adding that the unabated attacks on the Kuki-Zo community are unacceptable.

"We demand immediate intervention of the authorities to stop this violence and protect our people", it added.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Kuki-Zo women from Bungpi Region in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi district staged a protest demonstration against continuous attacks in Saibol, Twichin-Phaimol, and Khonomphai areas by armed miscreants from the valley.

They alleged that the attacks have disrupted the Christmas celebrations since December 24, plunging the community into turmoil during what should have been a season of peace and joy.

The protest, which saw women from all walks of life uniting in defiance, highlighted the unabated violence that has plagued the region.

The demonstrators expressed outrage over the security forces' attempts to demolish community bunkers, during combing operations.

"Kuki-Zo women are the protectors of their land and people.

If anyone dares to destroy our bunkers, they will have to step over our bodies first.

These bunkers are our only fortress in the face of relentless aggression," said one of the protestors.

The protestors pointed to the deteriorating security situation in the region and urged the authorities to recognise their plight and take immediate action to safeguard the Kuki-Zo community.

They held banners with slogans condemning the attacks, calling for justice and accountability.

Comment