By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has extended the ongoing shutdown in the Kuki-Zo predominant areas of the state by another 48 hours, citing the government’s alleged failure to address its charter of demands and secure the release of Kuki individuals reportedly held hostage in Senapati district.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the organisation said the extended shutdown would come into effect from midnight of May 17.
KIM stated that the decision was taken after “thorough deliberation” in view of what it described as the continued inaction of the government and the absence of any positive response to the charter of demands submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 14.
The organisation also alleged that authorities had failed to make progress in rescuing Kuki individuals who were allegedly taken hostage in Senapati district amid the recent violence in the state.
KIM appealed to its federating units, civil society organisations and the Kuki-Zo community to continue supporting and enforcing the shutdown, describing it as a collective call for urgent government intervention.
While medical emergencies and essential humanitarian services have been exempted from the shutdown, the organisation advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel due to the prevailing situation.
Kuki Inpi Manipur further stated that the continued silence and inaction of the authorities over the issue was “deeply unfortunate and unacceptable”.
The shutdown comes amid renewed tensions in parts of Manipur following recent incidents of violence and abductions involving members of Kuki-Zo and Naga communities.