Kuki-Zo Council calls indefinite shutdown in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Pherzawl and other tribal-dominant areas. The shutdown since Saturday night was called in protest against the crackdown on Kuki tribals opposed to the resumption of civilian traffic between the hills and the valley after more than 18 months. Protesters burned tyres and blocked roads with boulders and makeshift barricades, all of which were cleared by security forces. Police wrote on X that 27 security personnel were injured in Saturday’s clashes, with two of them in a critical condition. “Govt may take our lives, but they can never take away our freedom and rights,” the forum said, urging the Kuki-zo community to remain united. The clashes occurred when protesters tried to block vehicular movement between the valley and hills, defying home minister Amit Shah’s recent directive to restore free movement. A Manipur State Transport Corporation bus, four LPG containers and three oil tankers were escorted through the Imphal-Bishnupur-Churach andpur routes. The forum is also sticking to their demand for a separate administration for the hill districts.