Manipur shutdown enters day 4, daily life remains disrupted across districts

A five-day total shutdown across several districts of Manipur entered its fourth day on Wednesday, April 22 continuing to severely disrupt normal life, with markets, educational institutions, and transportation largely remaining shut.

The shutdown was called in protest against the recent Tronglaobi bomb attack, which claimed the lives of two children and left their mother injured. Since the beginning of the shutdown, roads have remained largely deserted, while commercial establishments and schools have stayed closed across affected areas.

However, slight signs of activity were observed on the fourth day at Khwairamband Ima Market, one of the state’s key commercial hubs. A small number of women vendors resumed selling essential goods, citing economic compulsion despite their support for the shutdown.

Several vendors said that while they continue to stand in solidarity with the protest, the prolonged disruption has made it difficult for those dependent on daily earnings to sustain themselves. Many described the situation as a conflict between economic survival and collective protest.

Anita, a vendor who has been working at the market for over a decade, said she has consistently participated in public movements but was compelled to reopen her stall to maintain her livelihood. She noted that the ongoing crisis has affected all sections of society and called for an urgent resolution.

“Now I am selling goods out of necessity. My support remains with the people protesting, but it has become difficult to manage daily needs,” she said.

Street vendors operating along the periphery of the market reported significant financial losses due to the shutdown, while a few shops within the market complex also resumed limited operations.

Meanwhile, protest activities including rallies, sit-ins, and demonstrations continued in several parts of the state. Security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas and remain on high alert to prevent any escalation of violence.