Manipur's Kuki-Zo women protest in Kangpokpi over alleged unfair arrests

Hundreds of Kuki-Zo women gathered at Brig. M. Thomas Ground in Kangpokpi district headquarters on Saturday for a peaceful sit-in protest. 

Organized by the Sadar Hills chapter of the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR), the demonstration aimed to highlight concerns over recent arrests by central agencies and the ongoing humanitarian situation in the region.

Under the banner “No Justice in Fear,” the protest drew displaced and affected women who called for justice, accountability, and impartial investigation into cases linked to the ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023.

KWOHR leaders expressed concern over what they described as “one-sided” action by investigative agencies like the NIA and CBI. Speaking at the protest, KWOHR spokesperson Lamneineng Haokip said, “While some groups in the valley have made open threats, action appears to be limited to one community. We are simply asking for balanced and lawful treatment under the Constitution.”

The organization claimed that many of the arrests lacked transparent legal procedures and called for an impartial judicial review. KWOHR also alleged that over 227 churches were destroyed and thousands of people displaced in the violence since last year.

In a memorandum submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the organization listed a series of concerns and demands, including:

A review of recent arrests and legal processes to ensure fairness.

Action against individuals accused of inciting or leading violence, based on existing FIRs and investigations.

Acceleration of legal proceedings in pending cases related to the conflict.

Protection of the rights and representation of tribal communities.

Restoration of law and order, including disarmament and recovery of unauthorized weapons.

Consideration of administrative safeguards to ensure long-term peace and equity.

The memorandum also referred to concerns about misinformation, perceived bias in law enforcement, and the need for inclusive governance.

KWOHR emphasized that their appeal is rooted in democratic rights and constitutional principles. “We are committed to peaceful democratic expression. Our request is for equal treatment and protection under the law,” the organization stated in the document.

Toward the end of the demonstration, the group made an emotional appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to uphold the spirit of the Constitution and address the grievances of communities affected by the prolonged conflict.

Urban and civil society leaders present at the event urged all stakeholders to support ongoing dialogue and rehabilitation efforts in the state, calling for a united approach to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.