Kuki organisation extends Kangpokpi shutdown by 48 hours over two deaths
The Committee on Tribal Unity extended the protest in Manipur's Kangpokpi district following the discovery of two missing youths' bodies.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) announced a 48-hour extension of a total shutdown in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Monday. The Kuki-Zo civil body called for the extension to protest the killing of two youths, Thangginlun Chongloi, 21, and Paoginlal Hangsing, 20, according to reports from The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times.
The two men, residents of Taphou Kuki village, went missing on October 28 while travelling between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki village. Their mutilated bodies were discovered in a hilly area of the neighbouring Senapati district on Sunday morning. CoTU alleged the youths were abducted by Naga groups.
The shutdown has affected normal life, with markets and businesses closed. According to Telegraph India, goods vehicles heading towards Imphal were stranded in Senapati district, while additional security forces were deployed in Kangpokpi to prevent incidents. Essential services, including schools, medical, media, and airport services, are exempt from the shutdown.
CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen issued a five-point charter of demands, which includes the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and handing the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The organisation demanded the arrest of those responsible for the abduction and killing.
The committee stated that the Kuki-Zo people will not accept empty assurances and requires decisive action. If the government does not ensure justice by 5pm on November 4, the community plans to hold a Mass Public Meeting to decide on further actions.