KZC calls total shutdown
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 08 2025: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has taken a bold stance against the Government's push to reopen highways, declaring a total shutdown in Kuki-Zo areas starting midnight (March 8) .

This decision was made during an emergency meeting of the council held today.

In a press release, the KZC vowed to oppose the Government's "free movement" initiative until a political solution is found for the Kuki-Zo community.

"The KZC cannot guarantee free movement of Meiteis across buffer zones and cannot take responsibility for any untoward inci- dents," it said.

Saying that the recent actions of the Government to send Meitei people to Kuki-Zo areas, despite ample warnings against such movements, have escalated tensions in the region, KZC added that violent confrontations have erupted at numerous locations, primarily between security forces escorting a passenger bus and the protesters.

Accusing the Government of imposing 'free movement', the council emphasised that the idea of peace is welcomed by all but it cannot be imposed.

Real peace is built on mutual respect and understanding, it said and main- tained that forcing peace can lead to resentment.

Urging the Central Government to address the underlying issues to prevent further unrest and ensure public safety, the council urged the Government to reconsider its stance (on opening highways and roads) to avoid further escalation of tension and violent confrontation.

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