The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) of Sadar Hills has announced October 3 as ‘Separation Day’ and has called for a complete shutdown along National Highway-2 (NH-2) in Manipur. This shutdown will last for 12 hours, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, impacting this crucial lifeline route. In a public notice issued today, CoTU emphasized that the ethnic conflict which began on May 3, 2023, remains unresolved nearly three years later. The organization has blamed the former BJP-led state government under N Biren Singh and MP Sanajaoba for exacerbating the state’s ethnic tensions.
Since the onset of violence, CoTU has dedicated the 3rd of each month to commemorating the “brave and beloved brethren and fallen heroes” who, according to the group, defended Kuki-Zo territory against encroachment by non-tribal communities. “This October 3rd will be observed with full fervor as ‘Separation Day’ to remind the Government of India that the Kuki-Zo community has already been physically and demographically separated from the majoritarian Meitei community,” the statement asserted.
On this day, all businesses, educational institutions, and markets along NH-2 will be closed, with exceptions only for medical emergencies and funeral processions. CoTU also expressed gratitude for the support shown by the Kuki-Zo community throughout “these tumultuous years” and urged continued unity in their pursuit of emancipation.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-kuki-zo-to-observe-october-3-as-separation-day-cotu-announces-12-hour-highway-shutdown-1285160-2025-10-01?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-10-01 22:11:00
