Amidst total shutdown, Kuki-Zo tribals mourns death of its member

Imphal: Hundreds of Kuki Zo men and women dressed in mourning gathered today at Phaijang village in Sadar Hills to bid farewell to one of their own. 45-year-old Lammang Kipgen, a father of five and volunteer of Kuki Zo village, was laid to rest at the Martyrs’ Cemetery, his life cut short in an attack early this morning in Bethel village.
The atmosphere was filled with emotion as the Committee of Tribal Unity (COTU) organized the burial ceremony in Sadar Hills of Kangpokpi district, bringing together top leaders, civil society organizations and the bereaved family.
Nevertheless, amid the mourning, questions regarding the withdrawal of central security forces from the region remained pending.
Media Cell Coordinator of CoTU, Ng. Lun Kipgen highlighted the recent uptick in militant activity following the departure of security forces and expressed community concerns.
He cited incidents of violence, including two days of gun battles and targeted attacks on villages.
The withdrawal of security forces, initially due to election duties, has left the border areas exposed, allowing armed miscreants to close in, heighten tensions and put lives at risk.
Kipgen stressed the need for accountability, urging the central government to address security gaps and protect the Kuki-zo community.