Sadar Hills shutdown ends after successful dialogue with Manipur DGP, CoTU urges unity

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has declared the lifting of the shutdown on business establishments in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District. The suspension of the shutdown will come into effect at midnight, following a consensus reached after extensive deliberations with civil society groups and a high-level dialogue with the Centre-deputed Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur.  

The decision aligns with a Public Appeal issued by the Manipur government on December 3, which urged for the restoration of public vehicular movement on critical routes, including Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati and Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur.  

CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen extended heartfelt gratitude to the public for their solidarity and resilience during what he described as “tumultuous times.” He emphasized that the shutdown served as a crucial platform for voicing the Kuki-Zo community’s grievances and underscored CoTU’s commitment to safeguarding their rights and dignity.  

"The discussions with the DGP were lengthy but productive," Kipgen remarked, noting the progress made in addressing the concerns of the Kuki-Zo community. He appealed to community members to remain united and steadfast in their support for the movement toward a separate administration.  

The shutdown, which had severely impacted economic activities in the region, was initially enforced to highlight the community’s dissatisfaction and press for immediate action. CoTU had previously warned of escalating protests should the government fail to reconsider its decision to resume public vehicular movement along the affected routes.  

With businesses poised to resume operations, CoTU has reaffirmed its dedication to the broader cause and urged continued vigilance as the community strives for lasting solutions.