CoTU Calls Off Shutdown in Sadar Hills After Understanding Reached Over Langchingmanbi Killing

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has prematurely called off the total shutdown imposed across Kangpokpi District following a breakthrough understanding between the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) and the concerned authorities over the brutal killing of Hoikholhing Haokip, wife of the Langchingmanbi Village chief.

The shutdown, which came into effect at 1:00 p.m. on June 20, was initially slated to last until 6:00 p.m. on June 21. CoTU enforced the bandh in a show of solidarity with the ITLF and Churachandpur-based Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), who were protesting the cold-blooded murder that sent shockwaves across tribal communities.

However, after today's discussions and a mutual understanding reportedly forged between ITLF leaders and government representatives, CoTU announced the early withdrawal of the protest shutdown.

With the announcement, normalcy began to return across Sadar Hills. Vehicular movement swiftly resumed along National Highway-2, which had remained largely deserted during the shutdown. Shops and other business establishments gradually reopened, restoring routine life in Kangpokpi town and surrounding areas.

While details of the understanding remain under wraps, sources indicate that the resolution includes a firm assurance of swift justice for the slain village chief's wife and further protection for vulnerable tribal settlements.