Imphal, Feb 7: Normalcy began returning to parts of Manipur’s Churachandpur district on February 6 following two days of protests sparked by the participation of three BJP legislators from the Kuki-Zo and Hmar communities in the formation of a popular government in the state.
Police said the protests, which erupted on February 5, were largely limited to the Tuibong–Kangvai stretch in Churachandpur town. While demonstrations turned violent at some locations, security forces increased deployment to prevent the situation from spiralling. Officials confirmed that no fresh incidents were reported on Friday.
Markets and shops reopened in several areas as routine activities gradually resumed, though many establishments in the Tuibong area remained closed. Authorities said the situation was under control, with additional security forces kept on standby to ensure law and order.
The unrest followed the swearing-in of three BJP legislators — Nemcha Kipgen as deputy chief minister, along with L M Khaute and Ngursanglung Sanate — a move that triggered strong opposition from Kuki-Zo civil society organisations. Protesters alleged that the decision to join the government went against the collective position of the community.
Tensions escalated after two tribal bodies called for a “total shutdown” in Kuki-dominated areas of Churachandpur. Protests were also reported from Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal districts, where demonstrators accused the legislators of betraying community interests.
Kuki-Zo groups have been demanding a separate administrative arrangement, citing the ethnic violence that broke out in Manipur in May 2023 and the continued displacement of members of both the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities.
Meanwhile, the Zomi Council, the apex body of the Zomi tribe, summoned the three legislators to explain their decision to join the government. In a statement issued on Friday night, the council said the leaders were elected to represent the aspirations of the community and expressed disappointment over the public reaction to recent developments. It warned that failure to respond could lead to organisational measures, including restricting the legislators’ entry into Zomi Council premises.
Although relative calm has returned to Churachandpur, officials said the political and social tensions in the hill districts continue to pose challenges to stability in the state.
