Kuki-dominated areas in Manipur remained tense Sunday as agitators continued attempts to enforce an indefinite shutdown to oppose the Centre’s directive for ensuring free movement on highways. In Kangpokpi district, there were reports of security forces clashing with Kuki-Zo protesters who were blocking roads at several places. It is unclear if anyone was injured. Protesters similarly enforced a shutdown in Churachandpur, another Kuki-dominated district. PTI reported that in Churachandpur and Tengnoupal districts, protesters burnt tyres and blocked roads with boulders, which the security forces were seen clearing. Business establishments remained closed and few vehicles were seen plying the roads in Kuki-dominated areas. Agitators were seen asking people to remain indoors. On Saturday, one person was killed and several others suffered injuries as security forces clashed with protestors who were trying to prevent the movement of a bus from the Meitei-majority valley through Kangpokpi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently issued a directive to ensure free movement on all highways of Manipur. Accordingly, Manipur Chief Secretary PK Singh flagged off two buses from Imphal Airport headed for Churachandpur and Senapati districts escorted by Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Official sources said the Senapati-bound bus is still stranded in Kangpokpi district. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), an influential body of the Kuki-Zo community, condemned the security action in Kangpokpi. It said in a statement: “Yesterday, the government of India’s decision to allow the free movement of Meiteis through the Kuki-Zo area led to agitation and protest in Kangpokpi. The security forces used excessive force on the protesters, which led to the killing of one Kuki-Zo and the injuries of more than 50 protesters.” The ITLF said it endorses the indefinite shutdown called by the Kuki-Zo Council in all Kuki-Zo areas, which started at midnight last night. “We request everyone to adhere to the shutdown in solidarity,” it added.
