- By Vivek Raj
- Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:07 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
An "indefinite shutdown" has paralyzed normal life in Churachandpur district, Manipur, as a protest against the recent arrests of five Kuki-Zomi individuals in connection with two separate cases. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum initiated this shutdown, denouncing the arrests as a "selective haste" by central investigating agencies.
Simultaneously, the Committee on Tribal Unity, another Kuki-Zomi organisation based in Kangpokpi district, imposed an "emergency shutdown" on National Highway 37, which connects Silchar and Imphal. They demand the immediate release of those arrested and have threatened to extend the shutdown to Kangpokpi district if their demands are not met within 48 hours.
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Here are the key developments on the Manipur crisis:
Shutdown Begins: The Committee on Tribal Unity, another Kuki-Zomi organisation based in Kangpokpi district, imposed an "emergency shutdown" on National Highway 37 in protest against the recent arrests of five Kuki-Zomi individuals in connection with two cases.
Protestors' Allegations: The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum alleges that the arrests were carried out with undue haste by central investigating agencies.
Highway Blockade: The Committee on Tribal Unity imposed an "emergency shutdown" on National Highway 37, connecting Silchar and Imphal, demanding the release of the arrested individuals.
48-Hour Ultimatum: The committee has issued a 48-hour ultimatum, threatening to extend the indefinite shutdown to Kangpokpi district if the arrested individuals are not released within the stipulated time.
Schools and Colleges Closed: In response to escalating tensions, schools and colleges in the state had been closed earlier. This closure has now been extended until October 5, affecting the education sector.
CBI Arrests: Four individuals were arrested by the CBI in connection with the disappearance and killing of two Meitei youths who had been missing since July 6. These arrests followed widespread protests in Meitei-dominated valley areas.
Disturbing Photos Emerge: The protests were triggered by the emergence of photos that appeared to show the dead bodies of the missing students, intensifying public outrage.
NIA Arrest: On September 30, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Seiminlun Gangte (51) from Kwakta, Bishnupur, in connection with an IED car blast that occurred on June 21. Preliminary investigations have revealed a case of transnational conspiracy involving Myanmar-Bangladesh-based militant groups.
Teacher's Background: Gangte, one of the arrested individuals, had been working as an English teacher at VN Model English High School in Kwakta before the violence erupted. The school's principal issued a statement asserting Gangte's innocence, stating that he had no involvement in anti-social or anti-national activities during his employment at the school from February 2, 2018, to May 2, 2023
Family's Plight: Gangte's wife, Mangsi, explained that their family had fled to Churachandpur after the outbreak of violence in May. Gangte was arrested while on a business trip to pick up goods from a hardware store in Kwakta, owned by the school owner, to sell in Churachandpur.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with protests, demands for releases, and disruptions to daily life continuing amidst the uncertainty surrounding the arrested individuals.
