The Committee on Tribal Unity has announced the observance of “Separation Day” on May 3 across Sadar Hills in Kangpokpi district, along with a 12-hour shutdown along National Highway-2.
In a statement issued on May 1, the organisation said the observance is aimed at reiterating that the Kuki-Zo community remains physically and demographically separated from the Meitei community. The day will also be dedicated to those who lost their lives while defending their land and communities during the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.
According to CoTU, the shutdown will be enforced from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM along NH-2, during which business establishments, educational institutions, private organisations and government offices are expected to remain closed. However, medical emergencies and funeral processions have been exempted.
The group also announced restrictions on travel, farming activities and routine functions by members of the Kuki-Zo community throughout the day as part of the observance.
A central programme is scheduled at the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Phajang at 12 noon, where representatives from the Kuki-Zo Council, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, along with church leaders, tribal organisations, student bodies and women’s groups, are expected to participate.
CoTU appealed for public cooperation and solidarity in observing the day.
The announcement comes amid continuing tensions in Manipur, where ethnic violence between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities since 2023 has led to prolonged unrest, displacement and political deadlock.
