Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Protests and Shutdowns Sweep Manipur Hills Over KukiZo MLAs Joining Government

Tribal groups say the lawmakers defied a community resolution requiring written assurances on a separate administration.

Overview

  • Unrest followed Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen’s virtual swearing‑in and the involvement of L.M. Khaute and N. Sanate in forming the BJP‑led government.
  • Thousands rallied across Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal, burned effigies of the three MLAs, and demanded Kipgen’s resignation and a separate administrative arrangement.
  • A 24‑hour shutdown in KukiZo areas shuttered markets, halted most transport and was briefly relaxed to allow mass rallies.
  • Clashes in Churachandpur led to baton charges and tear gas by security forces, with at least five people injured and additional deployments to sensitive locations.
  • The Kuki‑Zo Council announced a social boycott of the MLAs as authorities tightened security and the chief minister appealed for calm, with parts of Churachandpur beginning to reopen on Saturday.