Normal life in Manipur’s Imphal valley districts faced severe disruption due to a five-day shutdown protesting the killing of two minor children by suspected Kuki militants. The shutdown, initiated by Meira Paibis and Civil Society Organisations, paralyzed daily activities across the region, with deserted roads and limited vehicular movement. Protesters blocked roads, leading to the closure of commercial activities, shops, and vendors, intensifying the disruption.
The agitation by Meira Paibis and other CSOs aims to seek justice for the minors’ killing in Bishnupur district, sparking public outrage. Despite an initial understanding with the state government, a new condition was introduced by the Joint Action Committee, demanding the arrest of the perpetrators by April 25. Meanwhile, the United Naga Council declared a three-day shutdown in Naga-inhabited areas following the killing of two Naga civilians, expressing mourning and condemnation.
The total shutdown, scheduled until April 23, includes the suspension of public and private institutions, businesses, and vehicular movement, except for emergencies. A candlelight vigil is planned on April 23 to honor the deceased and emphasize a commitment to peace. The UNC also announced the suspension of social and economic ties with the Kukis during the mourning period, in line with Naga customary practice.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity criticized security forces for using excessive force against protesters and blamed Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh for failing to control the escalating violence. Recent incidents, including the killing of minors and subsequent civilian deaths, have fueled public anger and ongoing protests in the Imphal valley. Despite the unrest, the Chief Minister’s focus on peace progress during district visits has been met with skepticism by the COCOMI organization.
