Imphal, May 16: The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Sadar Hills on May 15 announced a 48-hour total shutdown across Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, extending support to a bandh called by Kuki Inpi Manipur over the continued detention of 14 Kuki civilians.
The shutdown is scheduled to come into effect from midnight of May 15, with the organisation stating that educational institutions, government offices, private establishments, commercial centres and transport services across the district would remain closed during the period.
In its statement, KSO Sadar Hills described the continued detention of the civilians as a “barbaric act” and termed it a serious violation of human dignity and the rule of law. The organisation expressed support for the demand seeking the immediate, safe and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
The student body also announced that volunteers would be deployed across different parts of the district to ensure what it described as the “strict and peaceful enforcement” of the shutdown. It warned that public or private establishments failing to comply with the shutdown directive could face consequences.
KSO Sadar Hills further stated that it would not be responsible for any untoward incidents arising from non-compliance with the shutdown call.
Criticising the response of authorities and security agencies, the organisation said the situation represented a test of constitutional governance and alleged that adequate action had not been taken to address the issue. It further asserted that any delay in securing the release of those still being held would amount to a failure in fulfilling constitutional responsibilities.
