IMPHAL, May 3: Normal life came to a standstill across Manipur on Saturday as the state marked the second anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted between the Kuki and Meitei communities in 2023. A statewide shutdown, called by various organisations representing both communities, led to widespread closures and disruptions.
In the Imphal Valley, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), imposed a total shutdown. Simultaneously, the Zomi Students’ Federation (ZSF) and the Kuki Students Organisation (KSO) enforced restrictions in the Kuki-majority hill districts of Kangpokpi and Churachandpur, as reported.
Markets, educational institutions, and shops were shut across the state, with public transport largely off the roads. During the early morning hours, only a few private vehicles could be seen operating. Authorities deployed additional security forces at sensitive locations to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents.
COCOMI has scheduled a major public gathering, titled the ‘Manipur People’s Convention’, at Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal. Residents have been urged to participate in large numbers to demonstrate unity and pay homage to the victims. A candlelight march is also set to take place in the evening to honour those who lost their lives in the conflict.
Meanwhile, in the hill districts, the Kuki community is observing the day as a ‘Day of Separation’, reiterating their demand for a separate administration. In Churachandpur, a memorial event was held at the ‘Wall of Remembrance’, while another ceremony took place at the Sehken Burial Site, where many of the conflict’s victims were laid to rest.
