CoTU's indefinite economic blockade begins
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, November 16 2023:
The Indefinite Economic Blockade' called by Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi commenced from November 15 midnight with strict checking of vehicles containing essential commodities.
Denouncing the alleged indifferent attitude of the authority concerned in enforcing law and order in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, CoTU decided to impose an indefinite economic blockade along National Highway-2 and 37 .
Volunteers were seen checking vehicles along the highways following CoTU s instructions to strictly enforce the economic blockade at various locations on both highways.
The Committee also prepared a roaster for duty to monitor the movement of essential vehicles along the highways.
CoTU had stated that it has been agitating for a meaningful resolution on different aspects but the demands have been consistently ignored.
It also stated that the unconditional release of the two innocent Kuki-Zo individuals is indispensable on grounds of illegal detention and impartial execution of law and order in a democratic set-up.
The apparent status of the state indicates the total failure of the constitutional machinery, it added.
COTU further stated that it stands resolute in its endeavour for justice and any form of systematic subjugation will be dealt firmly by the Kuki-Zo people.
During the day, Kuki-Zo women from Lungphou and KYU executives were seen strictly enforcing the blockade at Kangpokpi district headquarters, while hundreds of women enforced the same at Gamgiphai.
It is also reported that a good number of vehicles ferrying essential commodities are stranded along the NH-2 in Senapati area.
The indefinite economic blockade was also strictly enforced into the night by womenfolk and youths on roaster basis from various localities and adjoining villages of Kangpokpi town.