Manipur general strike turns intense: Protesters burn effigies of top officials

The 48-hour strike called by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), which began on the night of May 22, saw widespread support across Manipur's valley districts, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Kakching, Thoubal, and Jiribam. Normal life came to a standstill on the second day as tensions flared.
 

As part of the agitation, protesters blocked roads and escalated their outrage by burning effigies of Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, and Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. Sit-in protests were also observed in several localities as demonstrators voiced their anger.


Protestors raised slogans such as "Resign DGP, Security Advisor". They also demanded that "Governor should tender apology to people of state".

Educational institutions and commercial establishments remained shut, while government offices witnessed minimal attendance. Public transport services were completely halted, though exemptions were made for medical emergencies and travel to Ukhrul district for the Shirui Lily Festival.

The strike was sparked by an incident on May 20, when a group of journalists en route to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district were reportedly instructed by Army personnel from the Mahar Regiment to cover up the "Manipur State Transport" signage on their official vehicle at the Gwaltabi checkpoint, around 25 km from Imphal city. The media team, objecting to the directive, returned to Imphal, triggering widespread condemnation and protests.
 

Chanting slogans like “Condemn central force action,” “India’s policy is erasing Manipur,” and “Don’t disintegrate Manipur’s territorial integrity,” protestors accused the Centre of undermining the state’s identity and demanded accountability from top officials.

The effigy burning symbolised the public's fury and deep mistrust toward both state leadership and central authorities, amplifying calls for protecting Manipur’s territorial integrity and autonomy.