Manipur shutdown: NPCM's 48 hour strike disrupts normal life after killing of three Meitei civilians

Normal life was disrupted across Manipur on Tuesday, October 20 as a 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Native People Committee Manipur (NPCM) over the killing of three Meitei civilians in the Khongban Sanurok attack led to road blockades, the closure of businesses and the shutdown of educational institutions.

The strike, which began at midnight on Monday, was called to condemn the killing of three Meitei firewood collectors and the injury of three others in an attack in the peripheral areas of Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts. The NPCM has demanded the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and decisive action against the armed groups allegedly responsible for the attack.

Protesters took to the streets at several locations, blocking roads and raising slogans condemning the killings and demanding the resignation of what they described as an incapable government. They questioned the government's claims of a return to normalcy, arguing that incidents of violence continued despite assurances of improved security.

“Just stopping firing for some months does not mean there is peace in the state. The state government should think about bringing lasting peace. If they can't do it, please step down on moral grounds,” protesters said.

Roads wore a deserted look in several areas, while commercial establishments remained closed and schools and colleges suspended operations. Essential services, including medical facilities, water supply, media operations and ritual ceremonies, were exempted from the shutdown.

The NPCM said the strike was intended to press the state and central governments to take concrete measures to ensure civilian safety and hold those responsible for the killings accountable.

The three victims were identified as Arubam Ronil, 30, son of Raja, and Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 50, son of L. Tombi, both from Nongshum village, and Kshetrimayum Sushil, 25, son of Deben, from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai.

The strike comes amid continuing concerns over civilian security in Manipur, where the latest attack has triggered fresh demands for accountability and effective measures to prevent further violence.