Protests Disrupt Life in Churachandpur Amid Political Unrest

Normal activities in Churachandpur district, Manipur, faced significant disruption following a total shutdown imposed by tribal organisations. The protests were sparked by the appointment of new legislators associated with the Kuki-Zo community in the recent formation of the state government under Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.

On February 6, 2026, local supporters implementing the shutdown stopped vehicles in various areas of the district, leading to closed markets and limited transport services. The Churachandpur unit of the Kuki Students Organisation enforced a 24-hour protest starting at midnight. Additionally, the Joint Forum of Seven (JF7) declared a shutdown from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Kuki-Zo regions.

The protests were more palpable in the Tuibong area of the district headquarters, creating a tense atmosphere that has necessitated the presence of additional security forces.

The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) also announced plans for a mass rally on the same day, intending to oppose the inclusion of Kuki-Zo MLAs in the new government. This rally aims to express the group’s strong discontent and collective stance against these political developments.

Earlier unrest had escalated in the region, with clashes reported on February 5 at Tuibong forest gate. Security forces had to resort to baton charges and tear gas to disperse protesters who were engaging in stone-pelting. This conflict resulted in injuries to at least two individuals.

In a related statement, the Indigenous Tribes Advocacy Committee expressed concern over any potential intimidation against Kuki-Zo MLA N. Sanate and related disturbances, asserting that such actions would be seen as a sign of disrespect towards the tribal consensus.

Recent developments come in the wake of serious political tensions that erupted following the formation of a Meitei-dominated government, which many in the Kuki-Zo community view as a betrayal of their collective political agreement. The Kuki-Zo Council stated that the legislators’ actions directly contradicted earlier commitments made to abstain from participating in a government perceived as biased against their community.

While some tribal groups are advocating for a separate administration, others, like the Thadou Inpi Manipur, have welcomed the appointment of Nemcha Kipgen as Deputy Chief Minister, urging her to maintain the integrity of the region and distance herself from polarising narratives.

The situation remains fluid as the government prioritises restoring peace and stability amid ongoing tensions and protests.