Kuki-Zo Groups Hold Mass Rally in Protest Against Brutal Murder of Three Kuki-Zo Pastors

Kuki-Zo groups in Churachandpur district of Manipur held a mass rally in protest against the brutal murder of three Kuki-Zo pastors between the Kotzim and Kotlen areas in Kangpokpi district on Wednesday.

The mass rally was organised by the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR).

A large number of people from different walks of life, including church leaders, participated in the rally. The public first assembled at Koite village ground and marched to the Wall of Remembrance in Tuibong.

During the rally, the protesters shouted different slogans such as, “Justice for the three pastors,” “We demand justice,” “Respect human rights,” “Human rights are our rights,” and “NSCN-IM, stop killing.”

After the rally concluded, the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Minister through the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur district and placed several demands.

The demands include:

(i) Re-imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur to restore law, order, and public confidence.

(ii) Immediate review and strengthening of the security apparatus and deployment in all Kuki-Zo areas to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement and protection for civilians and commuters.

(iii) A high-level investigation into the brutal killing of the three Kuki pastors and all proxy violence carried out against the Kuki-Zo people, ensuring that all perpetrators and conspirators are identified and prosecuted under the law.

(iv) Swift and decisive action against ZUF-Kamson and NSCN-IM, which are allegedly involved in violence against innocent civilians.

(v) Recognition and legitimisation of Village Guards formed for self-protection in Kuki-Zo villages under proper legal and administrative mechanisms.

(vi) Adequate security arrangements and permanent protection mechanisms in vulnerable and conflict-prone Kuki-Zo areas.

(vii) Fulfilment of the long-standing political demand for Separate Administration for the Kuki-Zo people under the Constitution of India to ensure lasting peace, security, dignity, and coexistence.

KWOHR appealed to the Union Home Minister to urgently intervene and take decisive steps to protect innocent lives and uphold justice and constitutional rights.