Total Shutdown Hits Kuki-Zo Areas in Manipur Over MLA Betrayal
Total shutdown enforced in Manipur's Kuki-Zo areas over MLAs joining new government.
A total shutdown was imposed across Kuki-Zo inhabited areas of Manipur on Friday following violent clashes between youth protesters and security forces in Churachandpur district. The shutdown was announced by Kuki-Zo tribal groups as tensions escalated overnight in the hill region.
The tribal organisations also declared a social boycott of Kuki-Zo legislators who have joined the newly formed Manipur government led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. The groups accused the MLAs of betraying community interests by aligning with the new administration.
The dawn-to-dusk shutdown and boycott were enforced hours before the seventh session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly began, which opened with an address by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. Normal life in the affected hill areas came to a halt as markets, offices, and transport services remained closed.
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According to sources, at least two people were injured in the clashes, while five others were detained by security forces. Throughout the night, security personnel resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse protesters who had gathered in large numbers.
The violence reportedly began near the Tuibong Forest Gate area, where protesters initially pelted stones at security forces, forcing them to retreat. After regrouping at a strategic location along the road, security personnel held their ground as protesters launched repeated attacks.
Sources said the confrontation continued until around 3 a.m., with both sides engaged in tense stand-offs. The situation remains volatile, with heightened security deployment in the district and appeals from authorities for calm as efforts continue to restore normalcy.
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