Imphal: Kuki civil society organisations staged a coffin protest in Kangpokpi town on Thursday, June 11, following the killing of Haogin Lhouvum. The demonstration occurred during a district-wide shutdown that suspended schools, businesses, and traffic. Organised by the Committee on Tribal Unity, the protest saw hundreds of mourners gather along National Highway 2 to demand immediate government intervention.
The protest followed a June 9 attack on Lasan village, which claimed Lhouvum's life. Kuki leaders expressed concern over the safety of civilians, citing at least 13 recent deaths and the destruction of 11 villages. Janghaolun Haokip, a spokesperson for the local Kuki groups, questioned why security forces stationed near the violence failed to intervene. "It is deeply disturbing that a broad daylight attack could take place so close to a security deployment. Serious questions arise as to whether these forces are meant only to protect one particular village while neighbouring Kuki settlements are left exposed to violence," Haokip stated.
The organisations blamed Tangkhul militant groups for the violence and submitted four demands to the government. These include the immediate deployment of security forces to vulnerable villages, a judicial inquiry into the recent deaths, and the arrest of officials associated with Makui village. Protesters warned that they will continue their demonstrations until the government provides adequate protection and accountability for the ongoing unrest.
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