Manipur: CoTU claims Lalgouthang Singsit’s body days after protest over 'free movement' directive

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has finally claimed the body of Lalgouthang Singsit, who died during clash with security forces on March 8, following days of intense protest and deadlock with the government over free movement directive by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. 

His remains had been lying unclaimed at the Kangpokpi District Hospital Morgue as CoTU pressed for justice, demanding the cancellation of the free movement policy along the highway and a judicial probe into the role of Kangpokpi’s Superintendent of Police.

For five days, Singsit’s body remained in morgue storage as the community refused to accept what they called an unjust death. Despite multiple rounds of negotiations, the government did not meet their demands.

CoTU, alongside Singsit’s grieving family and Sadar Hills tribal leaders, brought his body home to Keithelmanbi for a final night of mourning. His funeral is scheduled for March 13 at the Martyrs' Cemetery in Phaijang.

"We will no longer engage in talks with the government regarding Lalgouthang’s killing," declared CoTU General Secretary Lamminlun Singsit, expressing frustration over the authorities’ silence. "He was not just a victim; he was a warrior who stood for our people."