CoTU extends shutdown in Manipur's Kangpokpi by 48 hours, says 'no exemptions' amid demand for justice

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, on Wednesday, November 4 extended its ongoing total shutdown in Manipur's Kangpokpi district by another 48 hours, accusing the government of failing to take decisive action over the killing of two Kuki-Zo civilians.

The shutdown, which was scheduled to end at 5 pm on November 4, will now remain in force until 5 pm on November 6, the organisation announced, citing the government's failure to address its demands and implement the Charter of Demands submitted in connection with the killings.

In a statement, CoTU said the government's response had fallen short of the urgent intervention required, alleging that continued delays and a lack of concrete action had deepened public resentment and weakened confidence in its commitment to ensuring justice.

Reiterating its position, the tribal body described its Charter of Demands as "non-negotiable and non-compromisable" and said it would not accept any dilution, selective implementation, partial compliance or exemptions.

The organisation called on the government to fulfil all its demands, stressing that assurances would not suffice and that concrete measures were needed to demonstrate its commitment to addressing the killings.

In a further escalation of the agitation, CoTU declared that the extended shutdown would be enforced without any exemptions or relaxation, irrespective of the nature of activities or the parties involved.

"All concerned are expected to strictly adhere to the shutdown," the organisation said, calling for complete compliance across its jurisdiction.

CoTU also warned that failure to ensure justice within the extended 48-hour period would prompt the Kuki-Zo community to intensify its democratic agitation and consider stronger collective measures.

Holding the government responsible for any further deterioration in the situation, the committee said the consequences of continued official inaction would rest with the authorities.

The organisation appealed to residents, commuters and transporters to understand the sentiments of the community and extend their cooperation during the shutdown.