Manipur: Protests in Churachandpur Against Nemcha Kipgen

IMPHAL-  Public protests were reported on Thursday night at Tuibuong in Churachandpur district against Nemcha Kipgen’s acceptance of the post of deputy chief minister and her participation in the newly formed government in Manipur.

Groups of residents gathered in Tuibuong and raised slogans opposing Kipgen’s decision to join the government, expressing anger that political appointments were being made while thousands of Kuki-Zo people remain displaced following months of ethnic violence in the state. Protesters argued that justice, rehabilitation, and accountability should precede political normalisation.

Parallel protests were also reported outside Manipur Bhavan in New Delhi, where Kuki-Zo civil society groups demonstrated against Kipgen, who is an MLA from Kangpokpi district and belongs to the Kuki-Zo community. Kipgen reportedly took her oath as deputy chief minister virtually.

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Notably, while protests were held in Churachandpur, no public demonstrations, statements, or organised opposition were reported from Kangpokpi district, Kipgen’s home district. This contrast was highlighted by protesters, some of whom alleged that the absence of dissent in Kangpokpi was due to the influence of her husband, Semtinthang Kipgen, who is described as the supreme leader of the Kuki National Front (SoO group).

Speakers at the Tuibuong protest alleged that fear of armed groups discouraged residents in Kangpokpi from voicing opposition, with some likening the situation to a “North Korea–like” environment of intimidation. These claims, however, could not be independently verified.

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The protest reflects growing discontent among sections of the Kuki-Zo population, who argue that the formation of a new government does not address the core political demands arising from the conflict, including security, rehabilitation of displaced persons, and political safeguards.

Shutdown Called in Churachandpur Over Dy CM Appointment

Meanwhile, the Kuki Students’ Organisation, Churachandpur (KSO-CCP) announced a 24-hour total shutdown across Churachandpur district starting midnight on February 6. The organisation opposed the participation of certain Kuki-Zo MLAs in the Manipur government and praised those who stayed away, saying their decision reflected popular sentiment in favour of a Separate Administration.

KSO-CCP also endorsed a social boycott announced by the Kuki-Zo Council against MLAs who joined the government, describing it as necessary to preserve community unity and dignity. The shutdown, the organisation said, would remain peaceful, with exemptions for medical emergencies, media, and essential services.

In addition, the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) announced a mass rally on February 6, to be held from Koite Football Ground to Peace Ground in Tuibuong, demanding Separate Administration in the form of a Union Territory with a legislature.

Political tensions continue to escalate in Manipur as civil society groups intensify protests against what they describe as unresolved political and humanitarian concerns.