KANGPOKPI, Jan 3: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), the apex body representing the Kuki-Zo tribal communities, has extended its shutdown by an additional 24 hours, further intensifying its protest against what it perceives as the government’s neglect of Kuki-Zo tribal rights. The shutdown, initially scheduled for 12 hours starting from 2:00 pm on January 2 to 2:00 am on January 3, will now continue until 2:00 am on January 4, 2025, due to the lack of any response from authorities.

As part of the ongoing protests, CoTU has also announced a mass public protest at the Kangpokpi district headquarters at 11:00 am on January 3. The extended shutdown and the upcoming protest reflect the growing frustration among the Kuki-Zo tribal communities, who are demanding immediate action from the government to address their grievances.

The trigger for the intensified protest is the deployment of central security forces to Saibol, located in the Bungpi region of Sadar Hills’ Lhungtin Sub-Division. CoTU has condemned this move as provocative, stating that it risks disrupting the fragile peace in the area and further marginalizing the Kuki-Zo tribes. “This is more than just a protest—it is a fight for justice and the survival of our people,” CoTU stated in a press release. “We will not back down until our voices are heard and our demands are addressed.”

The committee has called for the immediate withdrawal of central forces from Saibol, describing their presence as unnecessary and inflammatory. Additionally, CoTU urged all Kuki-Zo individuals to unite in this struggle, warning that continued government inaction would only strengthen their determination. “The extended shutdown is a testament to the unyielding spirit of our people. Justice delayed is justice denied, and we refuse to be silenced by indifference,” the committee added.