Kuki Inpi Declares 2-Day Nationwide Mourning Over Killing of Church Leaders

The Kuki Inpi Manipur has declared a two-day nationwide mourning and a total shutdown across Kuki-Zo inhabited areas following the killing of three church leaders and injuries to five others in a brutal attack allegedly carried out by the ZUF-Kamson faction in collusion with VBIGs.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the apex body expressed profound grief and strongly condemned the killing of Rev. V. Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulun, and Pastor Paogoulen, describing the incident as heinous and inhumane. It said the attack had deeply wounded the sentiments of the Kuki-Zo people.

An emergency meeting of Kuki Inpi Manipur was convened, during which several resolutions were adopted as a mark of mourning, solidarity, and respect for the deceased church leaders.

As per the resolutions, a total shutdown will be observed from midnight of May 13 until midnight of May 15 across all Kuki-Zo inhabited areas. During this period, all business establishments, government offices, private institutions, schools, and vehicular movement will remain closed.

However, essential services such as airport operations, medical services, fire and emergency response, and other humanitarian services have been exempted from the shutdown.

The organisation also announced that a candlelight vigil will be held by churches at 7:00 PM on May 13 in remembrance of the victims and to pray for justice, peace, and healing.

Kuki Inpi Manipur appealed to all Kuki-Zo people, civil society organisations, churches, student bodies, women organisations, and concerned citizens to strictly observe the resolutions in solemn solidarity and collective mourning.