CoTU Amplifies Pressure with 12-Hour Shutdown Amid Indefinite Economic Blockade in Sadar Hills

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has intensified its pressure against the continued deployment of central forces from the valley to Saibol village in Kangpokpi's Lhungtin Sub-Division by enforcing a 12-hour total shutdown across Kangpokpi district. This move comes alongside the ongoing indefinite economic blockade along National Highway-2, further exacerbating the region's socio-economic challenges.

The shutdown, which began at 2:00 PM today, has brought the district to a standstill. Businesses, markets, and offices remain closed, while vehicular movement along the highway is restricted to essential services only. Sub-divisional hubs and Kangpokpi district headquarters experienced a complete halt in routine activities as the shutdown was strictly enforced by CoTU volunteers stationed along the highway, from Kangpokpi District Headquarters to Gamgiphai.

CoTU’s intensification of protests underscores the growing resentment among the Kuki-Zo tribal communities over what they perceive as the Government's indifference. The deployment of central forces from the valley to Saibol has been widely criticized for disrupting daily life and creating an atmosphere of mistrust.

“The presence of central forces from the valley in Saibol is unacceptable and an affront to the Kuki-Zo tribal populace’s dignity. Our peaceful pleas have been ignored, leaving us with no choice but to take stronger measures,” said a protestor.

The combined effect of the economic blockade and the 12-hour shutdown has severely affected the region as businesses along National Highway-2, a critical trade route, remain closed, causing shortages of essential goods.

Vehicular movement is limited to essential services, with CoTU volunteers ensuring strict compliance and educational institutions and marketplaces remain inactive, disrupting the daily lives of thousands of residents.

CoTU has sternly warned the Government, emphasizing that the current measures are only the beginning of their agitation. “If our demands are not met, we will have no choice but to further intensify our protests,” said a CoTU leader.

The committee has demanded the immediate withdrawal of central forces from the valley deployed in Saibol. “This is not just about Saibol; it is about the dignity, rights, and peace of the tribal community,” CoTU stated.

The shutdown reflects the deep frustration felt by the Kuki-Zo tribal populace, who have rallied behind CoTU's call for justice. Residents are increasingly concerned about the prolonged disruptions, fearing long-term economic and social consequences if the standoff continues.

CoTU has also appealed to the public to stand in solidarity with their cause, stressing that their fight represents the collective voice of a marginalized community.

As the region grapples with escalating protests, attention now shifts to the Government’s response. Kuki-Zo tribal leaders have warned that failure to address their demands will further alienate the tribal communities, potentially leading to more unrest and prolonged hardships for the region.

This intensifying situation underscores the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to restore peace and normalcy.