The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has prolonged its shutdown in Manipur by an additional 24 hours, intensifying protests against perceived governmental neglect of Kuki-Zo tribal rights.
Extended Shutdown Details
Initially, CoTU declared a 12-hour shutdown from 2:00 PM on January 2 to 2:00 AM on January 3, 2025. Due to a lack of response from authorities, the shutdown has been extended until 2:00 AM on January 4, 2025.
Planned Public Protest
To further express their concerns, CoTU has organized a mass public protest at the Kangpokpi district headquarters at 11:00 AM on January 3. This demonstration aims to highlight the collective frustration of the Kuki-Zo tribal communities and to demand immediate governmental action.
Reasons Behind the Shutdown
The immediate cause for CoTU’s intensified protest is the deployment of central security forces to Saibol village in the Bungpi area of Sadar Hills’ Lhungtin Sub-Division. CoTU views this deployment as provocative, potentially disrupting the fragile peace and further marginalizing the Kuki-Zo tribes.
Demands and Statements
CoTU is demanding the immediate withdrawal of central forces from Saibol, labeling their presence as unnecessary and inflammatory. The committee has called upon all Kuki-Zo individuals to unite in this struggle, warning that continued government apathy will only strengthen their resolve. In a statement, CoTU emphasized, “This is more than just a protest—it is a fight for justice and the survival of our people. We will not back down until our voices are heard and our demands are addressed.”
Conclusion
The extended shutdown and planned protests underscore the escalating tensions between the Kuki-Zo tribal communities and the government. CoTU’s actions reflect a deep-seated demand for recognition and justice, with the potential for further unrest if their concerns remain unaddressed.
For a visual report on the situation, you may watch the following video:
Kuki Tribal Body Extends Shutdown Amid Economic Blockade in Manipur
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has prolonged its shutdown in Manipur by an additional 24 hours, intensifying protests against perceived governmental neglect of Kuki-Zo tribal rights.
Extended Shutdown Details
Initially, CoTU declared a 12-hour shutdown from 2:00 PM on January 2 to 2:00 AM on January 3, 2025. Due to a lack of response from authorities, the shutdown has been extended until 2:00 AM on January 4, 2025.
Planned Public Protest
To further express their concerns, CoTU has organized a mass public protest at the Kangpokpi district headquarters at 11:00 AM on January 3. This demonstration aims to highlight the collective frustration of the Kuki-Zo tribal communities and to demand immediate governmental action.
Reasons Behind the Shutdown
The immediate cause for CoTU’s intensified protest is the deployment of central security forces to Saibol village in the Bungpi area of Sadar Hills’ Lhungtin Sub-Division. CoTU views this deployment as provocative, potentially disrupting the fragile peace and further marginalizing the Kuki-Zo tribes.
Demands and Statements
CoTU is demanding the immediate withdrawal of central forces from Saibol, labeling their presence as unnecessary and inflammatory. The committee has called upon all Kuki-Zo individuals to unite in this struggle, warning that continued government apathy will only strengthen their resolve. In a statement, CoTU emphasized, “This is more than just a protest—it is a fight for justice and the survival of our people. We will not back down until our voices are heard and our demands are addressed.”
Conclusion
The extended shutdown and planned protests underscore the escalating tensions between the Kuki-Zo tribal communities and the government. CoTU’s actions reflect a deep-seated demand for recognition and justice, with the potential for further unrest if their concerns remain unaddressed.
For a visual report on the situation, you may watch the following video:

