Tensions Rise in Manipur Amid 48-Hour Shutdown Over Alleged Abduction
Shutdown in Kangpokpi District
Immediate disruption on NH-2, the Imphal–Dimapur Road, following CoTU’s emergency shutdown call. (Photo)
Imphal, Oct 29: Tensions are escalating in Manipur as the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) in Sadar Hills has initiated a 48-hour shutdown in the Kangpokpi district. This action is in response to the alleged kidnapping of two Kuki youths.
In a separate development, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) is rallying support for a demonstration scheduled for October 31, which aims to demand the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant factions.
The shutdown, which commenced at 5 PM on Thursday, will last until 5 PM on October 31. COTU has called for the closure of shops, markets, vehicles, schools, and offices, although medical services, media, and security forces are exempt from this order.
The two abducted youths, Thangginlun Chongloi, aged 21, and Paoginlal Hangs ing, aged 20, are from Taphou Kuki village. COTU claims they were taken on October 28 while traveling between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki village.
COTU has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the youths and has urged the government to initiate a prompt rescue operation.
The organization has criticized the state government and security forces for their inadequate response to incidents involving the Kuki-Zo community, alleging that such cases are treated differently compared to those involving other groups. They have warned of escalating protests if the youths are not safely returned.
The details surrounding the alleged abduction and the identities of those responsible remain unverified.
Meanwhile, COCOMI is appealing to the public, transport unions, and other stakeholders to support the upcoming rally on October 31. They have labeled the protest as a campaign against what they describe as a 'proxy war' in Manipur, also advocating for the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
COCOMI spokesperson Dhananjay has urged the community to assist the civil society organizations involved, emphasizing that essential services like medical and fire services should operate without interruption.
The demands of the organizers include the immediate cancellation of the SoO agreement with Kuki militant groups, justice for violence victims, protection for indigenous communities, and the resettlement of displaced individuals.
They are also calling for action against armed groups accused of instigating violence.
Earlier, a representative from the Naga Coordination Committee, Achung Gangmei, called for justice for victims, referencing the recent killings of three individuals gathering firewood near Nongsum Hills and six Naga individuals several months prior.
Gangmei has also questioned the role of central security forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, and has called for an investigation into allegations of biased conduct.
The ongoing shutdown and the planned rally highlight the persistent tensions surrounding security, accountability, and the return of displaced persons in Manipur.