Churachandpur: As observed annually by the Kukis across the world, the 29th Kuki Black Day (13 September) 2022 was also observed in Churachandpur district, demanding justice for the victims of the alleged NSCN-IM ethnic pogrom, which resulted in the death of more than 1000 Kuki innocent civilians, uprooting of 360 villages and displacement of more than one lakh Kukis during the years 1990s.
Sahnit Ni, Kuki Black Day observance saw Churachandpur town donned in black as black flags were seen hoisted up in all residential houses of the town. All educational institutions also declared holiday in support of ‘Sahnit Ni’ observation and movement of vehicles was also low. Various Churches in the district observed the day by holding a ‘mass prayer.’ Most governmental institutions also witnessed lesser attendence owing the observance and commercial areas of the town also witnessed less people, compared to the usual day.
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The main function was held at the Complex of Kuki Inpi Churachandpur, the place where a memorial stone was erected in 2018 on the occasion of 25th years anniversary.
Sources said that all frontal organisations of Kuki community in Churachandpur attended the event. After the main programme, ‘Candle Lighting’ was held at KIC complex, paying respect to the departed souls.
Letpu Haokip, president Kuki Inpi Churachandpur said the observance was held annually to demand justice for the slained innocent persons during the ethnic pogrom carried out by the NSCN-IM during the 90s. The observance will continue so long as the government settles the issue and delivered the much deserved justice to the victims, he added.
“We have been pressing hard for justice to the government. But instead of doing justice, the government is in dialogue mode with perpetrators-NSCN(IM). The observance is not for bloodshed, the Kukis are all for peace,” KIC president said.
The observance was attended by leaders of Kuki Civil Society Organisations, MLA Paolienlal Haokip amongst others.
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(Courtesy: The Hills Journal)