The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has finally claimed the body of Lalgouthang Singsit, who died during a clash with security forces on March 8, following days of protests against the free movement directive issued by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Singsit’s remains had been lying unclaimed at the Kangpokpi District Hospital Morgue as CoTU demanded justice, calling for the cancellation of the policy allowing free movement along the highway and a judicial probe into the role of Kangpokpi’s Superintendent of Police.
For five days, the tribal community refused to accept what they termed an “unjust death,” leading to multiple rounds of negotiations with the government. However, their demands were not met. Accompanied by Singsit’s family and Sadar Hills tribal leaders, CoTU brought his body home to Keithelmanbi for a night of mourning. His funeral is scheduled for March 13 at the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Phaijang.
“We will no longer engage in talks with the government regarding Lalgouthang’s killing,” said CoTU General Secretary Lamminlun Singsit, expressing frustration over the authorities’ silence. “He was not just a victim; he was a warrior who stood for our people.”
