Manipur Shutdown Disrupts Normal Life After Civilian Killings
A 48-hour statewide strike called by the Native People Committee Manipur demands accountability, stronger security and a time-bound investigation into the killing of three firewood collectors.
- Manipur observes a 48-hour statewide shutdown
- Three firewood collectors killed in October 18 attack
- NPC demands stronger security and a time-bound probe
- Essential services exempted from the strike
GG News Bureau
Imphal, 20th Oct: Normal life was disrupted across Manipur on Tuesday as a 48-hour statewide general strike over the killing of three Meetei firewood collectors brought vehicular movement to a near standstill. Several roads remained deserted amid a tense atmosphere, while protests were reported in multiple localities.
Shutdown supporters gathered in Canchipur, Khurai and Patsoi from the morning to enforce the strike. Night protests were also reported in Lamlong, Singjamei, Kwakeithel and Chingmeirong, reflecting public anger over the October 18 attack near Uyumpok and Nongshum in Imphal East district.
The Native People Committee Manipur (NPC), which called the strike from midnight, has demanded immediate action against the armed groups allegedly responsible for the attack.
Three Civilians Killed in October 18 Attack
The attack reportedly killed three civilians who had gone to collect firewood near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills. The deceased were identified as Lairenpakpam Inaobi Meitei, 40, and Aribam Noni Meetei, 35, both residents of Nongshum, and Ksh. Sushil Singh, 30, from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai. Several others were also reported injured.
The killings have renewed concerns about the safety of civilians who enter forest areas to collect firewood and meet their daily livelihood needs.
The committee has demanded the identification and removal of unauthorised armed camps near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills and Khamenlok. It has also called for additional security deployment in vulnerable areas and a transparent, time-bound investigation into the killings.
The NPC has further sought a time-bound decision on the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
Protest Outside Chief Minister’s Residence
In a related development, individuals detained by police after two victims’ bodies were brought to the gates of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s residence were released later on Monday.
The protest, involving grieving villagers and family members, sought accountability for the killings and stronger security measures. The detentions and subsequent release have added to tensions surrounding the incident.
The NPC has accused the state government of failing to provide adequate security and questioned assurances that normalcy was returning to Manipur.
The committee has also demanded the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, citing concerns over alleged political interference in security operations. It has called for lawful action against KNF(P) chairman SS Thangboi Kipgen. These remain demands and allegations made by the committee.
The NPC has urged both the state and central governments to take immediate, transparent and impartial measures to protect civilians and prevent further attacks.
Essential Services Exempted
Despite the statewide shutdown, health services, religious activities, institutions and essential services have been exempted. The committee has appealed to the public to maintain peace and ensure that ambulances, emergency medical care and essential supplies are not obstructed.
The strike comes amid continuing ethnic tensions in Manipur, raising fresh concerns that the latest killings could further strain the fragile security situation. The committee has called for credible action to restore public confidence and improve civilian safety.
