Imphal, May 1: Tension intensified in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district on May 1 as several Kuki-Zo civil society organisations enforced a dawn-to-dusk shutdown in protest against what they termed the “arbitrary arrest” of a social leader.
The shutdown, observed from 5 am to 5 pm, was called by a coalition of groups including the Kuki Chiefs’ Association, Molnoi Area Welfare Council, Hill Tribal Council, Kuki Students’ Organisation, and Kuki Women Union and Human Rights. The bandh brought normal life across the district to a halt.
The protest was triggered by the arrest of Otkhothang Baite, a former chairman of Canan Veng and HTC Unit-XI, who was taken into custody on April 30. In a joint statement, the organisations described Baite as a “dedicated and honest social leader” and alleged that his arrest was based on “unjustified inputs and FIRs”.
The groups demanded his immediate release and criticised the state police, warning that such actions could further aggravate tensions in the region. They also alleged “selective targeting” of Kuki-Zo leaders, claiming that others involved in violence had not faced similar action.
Appealing to the Centre for intervention, the organisations urged authorities to ensure impartial delivery of justice. The shutdown, backed by multiple influential bodies, reflects growing discontent in Tengnoupal and raises concerns over further escalation in the already sensitive region.
