The situation in Manipur continues to be tense as many women belonging to the Kuki-Zo community were injured by Central forces in Kangpokpi District, as alleged by various civil society organisations from the community.
The incident occurred in Saibol when chaos broke out after women from the Kuki-Zo community held a protest against the alleged forceful occupation of community bunkers by security personnel, according to statements by the civil groups.
Following the crackdown on women, Kuki-Zo groups have demanded the removal of Central forces from Saibol. Security forces reportedly deployed tear gas shells and used force, the Kuki-Zo groups claimed. Several women alleged they were manhandled, pushed, and dragged.
In videos shared by the ITLF, women are seen shouting at the forces, with one woman lying on the ground injured. Other photos show serious injuries on women’s heads and backs.
More than 20 women have reportedly been injured in what is being described as a clash between the Central forces and the women. Some of the injured women were taken to the nearest hospital, which is two hours away, while others were given first aid in nearby villages.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) of Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding the immediate withdrawal of Central forces from Saibol by 4 p.m.
According to local sources, the region has been tense since December 24, after the Kuki-Zo community alleged that militants from the Meitei community attacked their area.
“These incidents happen against the backdrop of incessant attacks from the secessionist Meitei community since December 24, 2024, Christmas Eve, disrupting our Christmas and beyond. We want to categorically make it clear that Saibol-Twichin is a Kuki region, beyond the Buffer Zones from the Meitei side, manned by the Central security forces. It is baffling that the Central forces allowed Meiteis to group, plan, and attack us, crossing the Buffer Zones, and when we act to protect ourselves, the Central forces forcefully entered our land to destroy our bunkers and leave us defenceless,” read a statement by the Kuki Women Union.
Since then, local volunteers from various villages have been guarding the area. However, women’s groups alleged that the security forces had acted against them.
Meanwhile, the ultimatum issued earlier by CoTU gave the government until 4 p.m. today to de-escalate the situation by removing the Central forces from Saibol village.
CoTU has stated that it will halt all traffic on the vital highway essential for trade and supplies in the region if their demands are not met.
