Tensions Escalate: Kuki-Zo Woman Killed Amid Ethnic Clashes in Manipur

In a tragic incident, an elderly Kuki-Zo woman was fatally caught in crossfire during a confrontation between security forces and armed men in Manipur's Churachandpur district. The police have confirmed her identity as Hoikholhing, the wife of Langchingmanbi's village chief, and her body was sent for post-mortem examination.

The violence erupted following gunfire at a Meitei farmer in Bishnupur, allegedly shot from the surrounding hills, prompting security operations. In response, the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights condemned the incident, labeling it part of a targeted campaign against the Kuki community, while police continue their investigation.

In protest, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum declared an indefinite shutdown in Churachandpur. This shutdown is not only a mourning act but also a stance against ongoing ethnic strife, which has claimed over 250 lives since May 2023, amidst rising hostility between the Meitei and Kuki communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)