Normalcy began to return in parts of Churachandpur district on Saturday morning after two days of protests launched against the participation of Kuki-Zo MLAs in the recent government formation.
The violent protests began on Thursday after three BJP legislators from the Kuki-Zo and Hmar communities joined Meitei MLAs to form a government in the ethnic strife-hit state. MLA Nemcha Kipgen joined the Y Khemchand Singh-led government as deputy chief minister, while LM Khaute and N Sanate supported her.
The demonstrations were largely confined to the stretch between Tuibong and Kangvai in Churachandpur town, unlike earlier instances when disturbances had spread across the district headquarters, police said.
While most areas of Churachandpur town witnessed a resumption of business activities, several shops in the Tuibong area remained closed, they said. Additional security forces have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Two tribal bodies imposed a “total shutdown” in Kuki-dominated Churachandpur, while rallies were held in Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal districts, alleging that the legislators betrayed their community.
Meanwhile, the Zomi Council, the apex body of the Zomi tribe, has summoned the three legislators who joined the government to appear before its office within three days.
In a statement issued on Friday night, the Churachandpur-based civil organisation said the legislators were elected with the expectation that they would represent the rights, voices and aspirations of the community.
However, their recent actions have caused widespread public dismay, it said. The council warned that failure to respond to its “call for dialogue” would compel it to take appropriate organisational measures, including prohibiting the legislators’ entry into the Zomi Council premises.
