IMPHAL/CHURACHANDPUR: The Kuki-Zo council in Manipur lifted the indefinite closure in the areas of the hill imposed since midnight on March 9, but it is still firm when opposing the free movement announced by the Minister of Interior of the Amit Shah Union, the Council said in a statement.
“While the closure has risen from Thursday night, it is imperative to clarify that free circulation, as announced by the Ministry of Interior, will be vehemently opposed by the Kuki-zo people, since it undermines and dilutes the justice process,” said the statement.
On March 1, Shah had ordered the security forces to guarantee the free movement of people on all routes in Manipur from March 8 and also requested a strict action against those who create obstructions.
There has been an indefinite closure in the areas of Kuki-Zo since Saturday after a young man died and more than 40 were injured after the protesters faced the security forces in the Kangpokpi district while trying to avoid the movement of a bus from Imphal through their area.
Reaffirming its demand for a separate political administration, the Council emphasized that this is essential to guarantee justice, peace and progress for its people.
He also urged the relevant authorities to recognize and respect their legitimate demands and work towards a peaceful resolution that defends justice and security for the Kuki-zo community.
The Council also reported that Lalgouthang’s body Canta, who was killed during a protest for Kuki’s protesters in Gamghiphai in the Kangpokpi district on March 8, was buried in the Mártir Kuki-zo cemetery in Phaijang within the district.
