Demonstration in Response to the Apprehension of Five Kuki-Zo Members by Central Security Forces
In Short:
- Shutdown Duration: 12 hours on Wednesday (10-07-2024).
- Cause of Protest: Detention of five Kuki-Zo individuals.
- KIM's Position: Advocates action against valley-based militants and the establishment of a Union Territory for Kuki-Zo people.
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), a paramount organization representing the Kuki tribes, has decreed a 12-hour shutdown on Wednesday within Kuki-Zo-majority regions. This protest arises from the recent apprehension of five Kuki-Zo individuals by central security forces, an action that has profoundly unsettled the community.
KIM articulated that the initial deployment of central security forces imbued the Kuki-Zo populace with a sense of security. Nevertheless, the recent detentions have engendered significant alarm within the community, which has been compliant with law enforcement efforts. The organization also castigated the ineffectiveness in addressing valley-based militant groups (VBIGs) who brazenly brandish advanced weaponry within the valley.
In conjunction with the protest, KIM is advocating for the creation of a Union Territory with its own legislature for the Kuki-Zo people, aiming to ensure their protection and autonomy.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), another Kuki entity, denounced the arrests. They contended that the detained individuals were village volunteers defending against assaults by valley-based radical Meitei militias. COTU is demanding the immediate liberation of the five detained individuals.
Incident Details:
- Incident on Monday Morning: A coordinated team comprising 39 Assam Rifles (AR) and the Central Reserved Police Force (CRPF) detained two individuals, including a minor, in Phaitol village. They were found in possession of three single-barrel firearms. This operation followed an armed assault on Manipur police and fire service personnel.
- Incident on Tuesday Morning: Three suspected Kuki militants were apprehended with AK series weapons during a concerted search operation conducted by CRPF, Assam Rifles, and Manipur police in Hengjol village, Kangpokpi district. Local women congregated to protest the detentions, prompting security forces to deploy tear gas, which resulted in injuries to three women.