The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has extended its total shutdown by an additional 24 hours, intensifying its protest against what it claims to be the government’s neglect of Kuki-Zo tribal rights.
Initially scheduled for 12 hours, beginning at 2 pm on January 2 and concluding at 2 am on January 3, the shutdown will now continue until 2 am on January 4. CoTU cited the absence of a response from the authorities as the reason for the extension.
To further their demands, CoTU has announced a mass public protest to be held at Kangpokpi district headquarters at 11 am on January 3. The extended shutdown and protest reflect the growing discontent within the Kuki-Zo tribal communities, who are calling for immediate governmental intervention.
The immediate cause for CoTU’s intensified action is the deployment of central security forces to Saibol in the Bungpi region of Sadar Hills’ Lhungtin Sub-Division.
CoTU has described this deployment as a provocative act, threatening the fragile peace and further alienating the Kuki-Zo communities.
“This is more than just a protest—it is a fight for justice and the survival of our people,” CoTU stated emphatically. “We will not back down until our voices are heard and our demands are addressed.”
The committee has demanded the immediate withdrawal of central forces from Saibol, asserting that their presence is both unnecessary and inflammatory. CoTU has called upon all Kuki-Zo individuals to maintain unity in their struggle, cautioning that continued government indifference will only fortify their resolve.
“The extended shutdown is a testament to the unyielding spirit of our people. Justice delayed is justice denied, and we refuse to be silenced by indifference,” the committee reiterated.
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