KWOHR slams SFs, questions free movement policy
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, March 10 2025: Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) has condemned alleged brutality of security forces against Kuki-Zo women on International Women's Day, March 8, in Kangpokpi district.

While the world celebrated a day of women empowerment, Kuki women in Kangpokpi faced a violent crackdown as their protest against free movement was met with brute force.

What should have been a moment of recognition for women's rights turned into a blood-soaked tragedy, with security forces baton-charging, firing rubber bullets and live rounds on unarmed protesters at Gamgiphai and Keithelmanbi Military Colony.

KWOHR stated that Kuki-Zo women were protesting against the relentless brutality they have suffered over the past 22 months at the hands of Meeteis, as well as the forcible opening of roads by the Governor and home minister.

Instead of addressing these atrocities or respecting their concerns as citizens of this nation, security forces used excessive force to clear roads and impose peace.

The protest ended in violence, leaving over 70 women injured, 31 suffering critical injuries.

In a more tragic turn, 30-year-old Lalgouthang Singsit, who was among the protesters, was shot and died on the spot.

KWOHR called this fatal shooting unjustifiable and demanded that the security personnel responsible be held accountable.

The human rights body accused security forces of becoming perpetrators of disproportionate violence against the Kuki-Zo people, who, since May 3, 2023, have endured the violence.

It asked, "Is this the peace we are supposed to look forward to under President's Rule?" It further questioned whether peace can truly be achieved through provocation and violence against a minority community that has already suffered at the hands of the state under the erstwhile Biren government.

"Is peace achieved by beating up defenceless women who are simply defending their land and community?" KWOHR raised concerns about the free movement policy, asking, "Free movement for whom and why?" .

It alleged that the Centre's priority remains ensuring valley residents' access to highways in the hills while completely ignoring the Kuki-Zo people's struggles.

Since the conflict began, they have been cut off from hospitals, airports, and educational institutions - all of which are concentrated in the valley.

The human rights body challenged Governor Ajay Bhalla, and home minister Amit Shah to take genuine steps toward peace by consulting all stakeholders - including the Kuki-Zo community - rather than engaging only with Meetei organisations.

It warned that if their talk of women's empowerment and democracy remains empty rhetoric, it will Only fuel the drumbeat of injustice that has echoed for the last 22 months.

Comment