KANGPOKPI, Dec 5: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) on Thursday has announced the lifting of the shutdown on business establishments in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District. The suspension of the shutdown will take effect at midnight, following a consensus reached after extensive discussions with civil society groups and a high-level dialogue with the Centre-deputed Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur.

The decision aligns with a Public Appeal issued by the Manipur government on December 3, urging the restoration of public vehicular movement on critical routes, including Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati and Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur. This announcement comes after weeks of disruption caused by the shutdown, which had severely impacted economic activities in the region.

CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen expressed heartfelt gratitude to the public for their solidarity and resilience during what he described as “tumultuous times.” He emphasized that the shutdown had served as an important platform for the Kuki-Zo community to voice its grievances, while underscoring CoTU’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding their rights and dignity.

“The discussions with the DGP were lengthy but productive,” Kipgen remarked, noting the progress made in addressing the concerns of the Kuki-Zo community. He appealed to the community to remain united and steadfast in their support for the movement toward a separate administration.

The shutdown had initially been enforced as a protest to highlight the dissatisfaction of the Kuki-Zo community and demand immediate action from the government. CoTU had warned of escalating protests if the government did not reconsider its decision to resume public vehicular movement along the affected routes.

With the shutdown now lifted and businesses ready to resume operations, CoTU has reaffirmed its dedication to the broader cause. Kipgen called for continued vigilance as the community strives for lasting solutions, urging the public to remain engaged in the movement for their rights.