Manipur’s conflict that erupted on May 3 last completed its eighth month today with no sight of ceasing the violence.
The Committee on Tribal Unity, or the CoTU, Sadar Hills observed the 8th Remembrance Day at Martyrs’ Cemetery at Phaijang village in Kangpokpi district this afternoon.
Though the 8th Remembrance Day was not organized for mass participation like the previous events, CoTU executives and all its department leaders took part in the event.
Candlelight vigil over the grave of the recently buried Kuki-Zo killed in the ongoing violence on May 3 was the main highlight of the event apart from exhortation and motivational speech from CoTU leaders.
CoTU Chairman Thanglen Kipgen and General Secretary Lamminlun Singsit led the CoTU executive members in the candlelight vigil, CoTU’s Medical Department was led by its Convenor Helen, the Defence Department was led by Thangminlen Kipgen, and Thangtinlen Haokip led the Media Cell while CoTU’s Women wing and Relief Committee also took part in the candlelight vigil, paying the highest tribute to the Kuki-Zo martyrs.
A few family members of the deceased Kuki-Zo also participated in the event.
CoTU’s Chairman, Thanglen Kipgen exhorted the gathering not to make the highest sacrifice made by the fallen Kuki-Zo martyrs in the Kuki-Zo movement for a separate administration.
He also encouraged the CoTU and its department leaders to work stronger and better while conveying a strong message to all the Kuki-Zo Village Volunteer Force to stay strong and committed to safeguarding the people and the land.
CoTU’s General Secretary, Lamminlun Singsit said that even after the completion of the eighth long violent month, it is very unfortunate we are yet to see the willingness of the Government to address the grievances and demands of the Kuki-Zo people.
He said that the dominant Meitei people continue their unceasing aggression over the Kuki-Zo people and currently they are unleashing their terror upon the Kuki-Zo in the border town, Moreh.
He continued that we keep in touch with our counterparts in Churachandpur, the ITLF, vigilantly monitoring and taking stock of the situation in Moreh and we will act according to the situation.
