Normal life remained severely disrupted across Manipur for the second consecutive day today as the 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Native People Committee Manipur (NPCM) over the killing of three Meitei civilians brought commercial activities and public transport to a near standstill.
The shutdown, which began at midnight on October 19, followed the killing of three Meitei firewood collectors in an attack at Khongbal Sanurok, along the peripheral areas of Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts, on October 20. Three others were reportedly injured in the attack.
Protesters blocked roads at several locations, while women staged sit-in demonstrations demanding accountability for the killings and decisive action against armed groups allegedly involved in the attack. In some areas, wooden logs were placed across roads to prevent vehicular movement, disrupting traffic and restricting public mobility.
The NPCM has demanded concrete action from the state and central governments to protect civilians and hold those responsible for the killings accountable. Its demands also include the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and action against armed groups allegedly responsible for the attack.
The shutdown had a pronounced impact across the five valley districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching. Markets and business establishments remained closed, educational institutions suspended classes, and public transport services largely stayed off the roads. Banks, private offices and entertainment venues also remained shut, while government offices reported low attendance.
Roads wore a deserted look, although some residents ventured out in the morning to purchase essential commodities and a few private vehicles were seen plying. Inter-state road transport services were disrupted, while flight operations continued normally.
The NPCM had exempted essential services, including healthcare and medical emergencies, fire services, water supply, media operations and religious ceremonies, from the shutdown.
The three victims were identified as Arubam Ronil, 30, son of Raja of Nongshum village; Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 50, son of L. Tombi, also of Nongshum village; and Kshetrimayum Sushil, 25, son of Deben of Uyumpok Mamang Leikai.
The killings have triggered widespread anger, with the shutdown reflecting mounting demands for civilian protection and accountability amid continuing insecurity in the state’s peripheral areas. The NPCM has called on the authorities to demonstrate concrete action to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents.
