CHURACHANDPUR, MAY 17 (AGENCIES): Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of Kuki tribes, has extended the ongoing total shutdown across Kuki-Zo areas by another 48 hours, intensifying pressure on the government to secure release of the remaining Kuki-Zo hostages allegedly held in Senapati district, reports India Today NE.
The decision followed a protest rally at Kangpokpi district headquarters on Sunday, where thousands of Kuki-Zo people participated in a march demanding unconditional release of 14 civilians and justice for the killing of three Kuki-Zo church leaders.
The rally began from Nute Kailhang and proceeded through Kangpokpi town to the office of the Superintendent of Police, with protestors carrying placards and raising slogans.
The mobilisation, organised under the aegis of KIM, was joined by various Kuki-Zo civil society organisations.
Addressing the gathering at Brigadier M. Thomas Ground, KIM information secretary Janghaolun Haokip said the democratic agitation would continue until justice was secured.
The shutdown disrupted normal life across Kangpokpi district, with shops closed and highways largely deserted.
Monday, May 18, 2026