Manipur: CoTU calls off Sadar Hills shutdown after breakthrough on Langchingmanbi incident

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has prematurely withdrawn the total shutdown enforced in Kangpokpi District, following a breakthrough understanding between the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) and government representatives over the death of Hoikholhing Haokip, wife of the Langchingmanbi village chief.

The shutdown, which began at 1:00 p.m. on June 20, was initially planned to last till 6:00 p.m. on June 21. It was launched as a show of solidarity with Churachandpur-based Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) demanding swift justice for the alleged murder, which had sparked outrage across tribal communities in the state.

However, following late-night discussions, CoTU announced the suspension of the bandh, citing a mutual understanding reportedly reached between the ITLF and the concerned authorities. 

While the finer details of the resolution remain undisclosed, sources suggest it includes assurances of speedy justice and enhanced security measures for vulnerable tribal villages.

The move brought immediate relief to Sadar Hills, with vehicular movement resuming swiftly along National Highway-2, and shops and businesses reopening in Kangpokpi and adjoining areas.

Also Read: Manipur: Farmer shot at in fresh escalation; woman killed in crossfire with security forces

Though the situation remains delicate, CoTU’s decision reflects the tribal leadership’s willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue under constructive circumstances.

The region, already marred by ethnic tensions, continues to grapple with incidents of violence, but the early end to the shutdown offers a glimmer of hope for peace through negotiation and accountability.

Notably, a fresh surge of violence rocked Manipur's Bishnupur district on June 19 afternoon after a local farmer was shot by an unidentified assailant, triggering a swift and intense retaliatory operation by security forces.

The incident occurred around 3:00 PM when Ningthoujam Biren Singh, a cultivator from Phubala Awang Maning Leikai, was working in his paddy field at Phubala Maning.

He was shot in the left arm by an unknown armed miscreant and was immediately rushed to the District Hospital, Bishnupur. He was later referred to RIMS Hospital in Imphal, where his condition was reported to be stable.

Following the shooting, combined security forces launched a combing and search operation across Langchingmanbi, Heichanglok, and the western fringes of Phubala village in an effort to track down the perpetrator.

However, during the operation, security personnel reportedly came under fire from unidentified gunmen. A heavy exchange of fire ensued. In the crossfire, one Hoikholhing, the wife of the village chief of Langchingmanbi, was struck by a bullet and died on the spot.