Manipur Violence: Dead Bodies of Kuki-Zo Tribals Airlifted From Imphal Morgues After 7 Months

As many as 60 dead bodies of Kuki-Zo tribals killed in Manipur violence were flown back to their respective districts in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi from Imphal amid tight security on Thursday.

The dead bodies of the Kuki-Zo tribals killed in the early weeks of May 2023 were lying in limbo at JNIMS and RIMS morgues in Imphal, eversince the ethnic conflict between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities broke out on May 3, 2023. The arrangement was made after proper identification of the Kuki-Zo death bodies.

A total of 19 bodies were airlifted in two round trips at Motbung in Kangpokpi district and later the bodies were handed over to members of Committee on Tribal Unity representing the deceased families.

A mass burial for those 19 Kuki-Zo bodies is scheduled to be held at Phaijang village, on Friday, about 1 km from Motbung, and 20 km from Kangpokpi district headquarters.

Meanwhile, a total of 41 bodies were airlifted and reached 36 sector Assam Rifles helipad in Headquarter Veng, Churachandpur district in four trips. However, the funeral programme for those 41 bodies of the Kuki-Zo bodies is yet to be confirmed, including the burial site. Sources said the burial is likely to be held next week.

The death bodies of Kuki-Zo from Lamka were then deposited in Lamka Medical College morgue.