One year of Manipur violence: Kuki-Zo people observe Martrys’ Remembrance Day, Awakening Day

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The Kuki-Zo community across Kangpokpi District observed one year of violence in Manipur. The day was also observed as Kuki-Zo Martyrs' Remembrance Day. A program under the aegis of the Sadar Hills unit of the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) was also organised at the Martyrs' Cemetery in Phaijang village which was attended by thousands, including family members and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the past year.

A floral tribute accompanied by a gun salute also took place during the program to pay homage to those who lost their lives during the violence. Locals also hoisted black flags at their respective homes as a mark of unity and respect to the victims. Additionally, candlelight vigils were also held along the National Highway from Gamgiphai to Taphou and in all bazaar and town areas.

Today’s program was held amid a total shutdown call by CoTU across the district, which began at midnight on May 2 and will culminate at midnight on May 3. Apart from those exempted from the purview of the total shutdown, all types of vehicles stayed off the road, leaving the otherwise busy National Highway 2 deserted and desolate.

Speaking to the media, CoTU's Media Cell Coordinator, Ng. Lun Kipgen said that a part of the country has been treated towards “Talibanisation”.

"Each observance serves as a reminder to the central government that within the esteemed nation of India, a segment of the state has veered towards Talibanization," Kipgen said.

Similar sights could also be seen at Peace Ground at Lamka in Churachandpur district. Here, the day was observed as Kuki-Zo Awakening Day which was attended by hundreds from the community. Draped in black, the attendees along with families of the deceased also paid floral tribute to the victims of the violence.

On May 3 last year, long-standing tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur spiralled into violence, which claimed at least 52 lives in three days. Over the year, the toll continued to grow — at least 226 lives have been lost to the conflict in the past year. Of the dead, 20 have been identified as women, while eight are children.

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