India, Dec. 26 -- Christmas was celebrated across Kangpokpi district with subdued fervour and solemn reflection, as the Christian community marked the festival amid continuing conflict-related trauma and the displacement of thousands of Kuki-Zo families.

Though the spirit of Christmas was felt, it was far from the vibrant celebrations of the past.

For the third consecutive year, the community largely restrained itself from full-scale festivities in view of the prolonged conflict and the immense human suffering it has caused.

After two years of near-total restraint, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) permitted limited celebrations this year, allowing observances for two days under strict guidelines. The relaxation, however, came with ...