Manipur: Thousands rally in Moreh and Churachandpur demanding accountability for Jiribam killings

Thousands of people gathered in Moreh today for a massive public peace rally, demanding justice for the victims of the alleged killings at Jiribam. The rally was organized by the Kuki Women’s Union and Human Rights (KWU & HR) Tengnoupal District, with participation from tribal organizations, community leaders, and youth groups from Moreh, Tengnoupal, and surrounding villages.

The march began at Galngam Lentol in Moreh, with protesters holding banners that read “We Want Justice,” “Respect Human Rights,” and “Action Against the Perpetrators.” The rally was a direct response to the deaths of Zosangkim Hmar and ten Kuki-Zo village volunteers who were allegedly killed while defending their communities during ethnic clashes. Eyewitnesses allege that the victims were gunned down by personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

KWU & HR General Secretary Lhaikhohoi Doungel addressed the crowd, calling the alleged killings an egregious violation of human rights. "This is not just about lives lost; it’s about the blatant disregard for our people’s dignity," Doungel said. "We demand justice, transparency, and accountability from the authorities."

The leadership of KWU & HR said that today’s rally was just the beginning. "We will not rest until justice is served," they said. "Violence against our communities will not go unanswered, and we will continue to stand for what is right."

Churachandpur also witnessed an unprecedented wave of public outrage as tens of thousands rallied against the alleged killing of 10 Kuki-Zo volunteers in Jiribam, demanding justice and accountability from state and national authorities. 

Flagged off by Thangboi of the Koite Lui Area Chief Association, the protest began at Koite Ground, snaking through Tiddim Road, and culminated at the Wall of Remembrance in Tuibong. Protesters carried banners and placards bearing strong messages, such as “CRPF: Cowards in Uniform,” “Stop Siding with Secessionists,” and “Justice for Jiribam Martyrs.” A large banner proclaiming “Public Rally Over the Mass Killing in Jiribam” led the procession.

Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Vice President Minlal, addressing the gathering, labeled the alleged killings as "barbaric and senseless." He said that the slain volunteers were not insurgents but defenders of their villages, attacked by armed militants. “The CRPF’s actions represent a gross betrayal of their mandate to protect lives. Justice must be swift and unequivocal,” he said.