CoTU Announces 12-Hour Shutdown, Intensification of Protest Over Central Forces in Saibol

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has announced a 12-hour total shutdown across the region in response to the government's continued deployment of central forces in Saibol. The shutdown will begin at 2:00 PM on January 2, 2025, and will last until 2:00 AM on January 3, 2025. This move comes in addition to the ongoing indefinite economic blockade along National Highway-2.

In a statement released by CoTU, the committee expressed frustration over the government's repeated indifference to their appeals for the withdrawal of central forces from Saibol. The presence of these forces, according to CoTU, has sparked widespread anxiety and fear among the tribal populace, severely disrupting daily life and undermining the region's peace and harmony.

"The deployment of central forces in Saibol is a grave disregard for the voices of our people. Despite numerous peaceful appeals and requests for dialogue, the government has failed to take meaningful action. Such indifference cannot and will not be tolerated," the statement read.

The shutdown will affect all vehicular movement, commercial establishments, educational institutions, and government offices within the region. However, essential services such as healthcare and emergency responses will be exempted to ensure that humanitarian needs are met.

CoTU reiterated its primary demands - the immediate withdrawal of central forces stationed in Saibol, a constructive dialogue to address the root causes of the grievances and ensure long-lasting peace in the region.

The statement emphasized that the shutdown and economic blockade were not acts of defiance but rather desperate calls for justice and recognition, reflecting the deep frustration felt by the tribal communities due to the government's inaction.

"CoTU is committed to protecting the rights, dignity, and well-being of the tribal communities, and we will not relent until justice is served," the statement concluded.

The Committee called on the public to stand in solidarity with their cause and urged the government to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the crisis.