UKHRUL: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has voiced concern over what it describes as delays in delivering justice to members of the Kuki-Zo community, while also announcing the temporary suspension of a shutdown across Kuki-Zo-inhabited districts following discussions with government representatives.
In a statement issued on Friday, KIM said more than two weeks had passed since the killing of three Thadou-Kuki church leaders on May 13, 2026, and alleged that no visible progress had been made in identifying and arresting those responsible. The organisation stated that the lack of arrests had caused frustration among the Kuki-Zo community and raised questions about the effectiveness of the authorities’ response.
The organisation also highlighted the continued detention of 14 Kuki-Zo individuals in Senapati district. According to KIM, repeated appeals and public protests have yet to result in their release. The group said the situation has contributed to feelings of insecurity and mistrust within the community.
KIM further alleged a pattern of unequal treatment in the handling of cases involving the Kuki-Zo community, arguing that the response to the killing of the church leaders and the detention of the 14 individuals had lacked the urgency seen in other cases.
The organisation called on the Government of India and relevant authorities to expedite investigations into the killings, secure the release of the detained individuals, and ensure that justice is delivered impartially. It also reiterated its demand for the advancement of political dialogue with Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups representing the Kuki-Zo people, with the aim of reaching a long-term political settlement.
Meanwhile, KIM and a joint platform of Kuki-Zo civil society organisations, including tribal bodies and student organisations, announced the temporary suspension of the shutdown following consultations with government officials held on Friday and Saturday.
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The organisations said the decision was taken after receiving what they described as positive assurances during the meetings. They stated that the suspension was intended to facilitate administrative processes and provide the government with an opportunity to address the concerns raised by the community.
KIM emphasised that the temporary lifting of the shutdown should not be interpreted as a withdrawal of its demands. The organisation said it remained committed to seeking justice, security and constitutional protections for the Kuki-Zo people.
At the same time, the group warned that a lack of visible action by the authorities during the period of relaxation could lead to the resumption and intensification of shutdowns and other democratic forms of protest.
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The organisation also expressed appreciation to members of the Kuki-Zo community for their support and participation throughout the shutdown, stating that efforts to secure justice and safeguards for the community would continue.