Kuki-Zo Women Protest Unrelenting Attacks in Bungpi; CoTU Declares 12-Hour Total Shutdown

Hundreds of Kuki-Zo women from Bungpi Region in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, staged a resolute protest against continuous attacks on the Kuki-Zo community in Saibol, Twichin-Phaimol, and Khonomphai. The assaults, allegedly carried out by armed miscreants from the valley, have disrupted the Christmas celebrations since December 24, plunging the community into turmoil during what should have been a season of peace and joy.

The protest, which saw women from all walks of life uniting in defiance, highlighted the unabated violence that has plagued the region. The demonstrators expressed outrage over the security forces' attempts to demolish community bunkers during combing operations. These bunkers, the women emphasized, are not mere structures but their sole line of defense against the recurrent attacks.

“Kuki-Zo women are the protectors of their land and people,” said a protestor, her voice trembling with emotion. “If anyone dares to destroy our bunkers, they will have to step over our bodies first. These bunkers are our only fortress in the face of relentless aggression.”

The protests underscore the deteriorating security situation in the region, with the women urging authorities to recognize their plight and take immediate action to safeguard the Kuki-Zo community. Calls for justice and a cessation of violence were loud and clear, with banners and slogans condemning the attacks and demanding accountability.

The demonstration also drew attention to the broader issues of systemic neglect and inadequate protection by the authorities. As tensions rise in Bungpi, the protest by Kuki-Zo women serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of a community fighting for its survival amidst ongoing adversity.

Meanwhile, in a bold response to the ongoing attacks on the Kuki-Zo community in the Bungpi Region, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has declared a 12-hour total shutdown across Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District. The shutdown will take place from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 29, marking a unified stand against the violence allegedly perpetrated by armed miscreants from the valley since Christmas Eve.

The shutdown is aimed at drawing attention to the escalating situation, which has disrupted the lives of the Kuki-Zo community in Saibol, Twichin-Phaimol, and Khonomphai. CoTU stated that the attacks have not only marred the festive season but have also threatened the safety and dignity of the Kuki-Zo people.

During the shutdown, all vehicular movement along the National Highway - 2 passing through Sadar Hills will be strictly prohibited. Business establishments and markets will remain closed, with CoTU emphasizing the need for solidarity among the tribal population to send a clear message to the authorities and perpetrators.

“This is not just a protest; it is a cry for justice and survival,” stated a CoTU spokesperson. “The unabated attacks on our community are unacceptable, and we demand immediate intervention to stop this violence and protect our people.”

The shutdown is expected to bring daily life in the region to a standstill, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the collective anger of the tribal community. CoTU has called for support and cooperation from all sections of society, urging them to recognize the plight of the Kuki-Zo people and stand with them in their struggle.