Key Points
Kuki-Zo Council declares indefinite shutdown against bus service
Violent confrontations reported between security forces and protesters
One killed and multiple women injured during demonstrations
Peace march by Meitei organizations sparks community tensions
The KZC, in a statement, said that during the movement of buses from Imphal to tribal-dominated districts, violent confrontations have erupted in numerous locations between security forces escorting the vehicles and the protesters. It mentioned that this alarming situation has led to the death of Lalgun Singsit and a significant number of injuries among women participating in the “demonstrations.” “At least one individual has been confirmed dead from gunfire by security forces while two others are hospitalized in critical condition, raising significant concerns about the use of force in this context. Moreover, over 50 women have suffered serious injuries, highlighting security forces' excesses in the community. The security personnel employed forceful measures, which has only intensified the protesters' resolve,” the KZC said.
Meanwhile, at least two state transport buses were attacked in tribal-inhabited Kangpokpi and another place in Manipur on Saturday following the resumption of inter-district bus services from Imphal to hill districts after over 20 months, officials said. A police official in Imphal stated that although the buses were escorted by the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), activists of the tribal organizations attacked the buses, including one Senapati district-bound vehicle in Kangpokpi. As per the direction of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Manipur government on Friday announced the resumption of passenger bus services from Saturday between Imphal and four other districts -- Senapati, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, and Churachandpur.
On the other hand, a leading Meitei civil society organization -- Federation of Civil Society (FOCS) -- on March 6 announced that it, along with other like-minded organizations, would organize a peace march from Imphal to Naga people dominated district Senapati on March 8. The peace march from Imphal to Senapati district was supposed to go through the mountainous Kangpokpi district, which is inhabited by the Kuki-Zo community. The FOCS leaders also urged the Kuki organizations to join the rally instead of opposing the peace march.
The KZC has expressed strong condemnation of the government's decision to resume the bus service, stating that the government was fully aware of the potential for violence if such a decision was implemented. This sentiment was echoed in a statement signed by KZC Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet and General Secretary (administration) Rev. V.L. Nghakthang. The KZC firmly emphasizes that while the idea of peace is indeed welcomed by all, it cannot be achieved through the imposition of force at the expense of a particular community. Therefore, it is crucial for the central government to address the underlying issues to prevent further unrest and protect public safety. The KZC urged the government to reconsider its stance to avoid further escalation of tension and violent confrontation. The Kuki Students’ Organisation also supported the indefinite shutdown called by the KZC.
