Imphal: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) on Saturday announced a temporary suspension of the total shutdown affecting Kuki-Zo-inhabited districts after consultations with the state government on May 29 and 30, ANI reported.
In a press release, KIM said that, along with the Joint Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organisations — which include tribe Inpis and student bodies — it recognised “the positive outcomes and assurances that emerged during the meetings regarding issues affecting the Kuki-Zo community.”
As a gesture of cooperation and to help maintain law and order, the organisation declared the shutdown suspended with immediate effect.
Goodwill Gesture
The release said the decision was taken “in good faith and in the larger public interest to facilitate administrative processes and provide the government an opportunity to address the concerns of the Kuki-Zo people.” KIM emphasised that the move was intended to allow essential services and administration to function while talks continue.
KIM made clear that lifting the shutdown should not be construed as a compromise on the community’s rights, demands or stance. The organisation described the suspension as “a responsible step taken with the expectation of corresponding action from the government.”
According to the statement, the Kuki-Zo people have displayed “restraint, patience and cooperation despite what the organisation described as continued ‘suffering and injustices’.” KIM expressed hope the government would respond to the gesture “through concrete action, sincerity and accountability.”
Final Warning
The organisation warned that any “failure, delay, negligence or lack of visible action by the government during the period of relaxation could lead to the intensification of the shutdown and other democratic forms of protest. In such a scenario, the government would bear responsibility for the consequences arising from any inaction,” the release stated.
KIM also thanked members of the Kuki-Zo community for their “unity, discipline and support throughout the shutdown and the public movement,” and reiterated that the collective struggle would continue “until justice, security and what it termed rightful guarantees for the community are ensured.”
