Guwahati, May 23 -- By NE NOW NEWS

Guwahati: Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body representing the Kuki tribes in Manipur, has announced a further 48 hour extension of the ongoing total shutdown in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, which will take effect from midnight on May 23.

In a statement released from Kangpokpi on Friday, the organisation said the decision was made to protect the "rights, dignity and future" of the Kuki Zo community.

According to the announcement, all educational institutions, commercial establishments and regular vehicular movement will remain closed during the shutdown period.

However, essential services have been exempted from the restrictions. These include emergency medical services, pharmacies, media operations, water ...