National/Alive News: Normal life was disrupted across Manipur on Tuesday as a 48-hour statewide shutdown was observed over the killing of three Meetei civilians who had gone to collect firewood. Vehicular movement came to a halt in several areas, while markets and roads remained largely deserted amid heightened tension.
Shutdown supporters gathered at Canchipur, Khurai and Patsoi to enforce the strike. Night protests were also reported from Lamlong, Singjamei, Kwakeithel and Chingmeirong. The protests followed an October 18 attack near Uyumpok and Nongshum in Imphal East district.
The deceased have been identified as Lairenpakpam Inaobi Meitei, 40, Aribam Noni Meetei, 35, both residents of Nongshum, and Ksh. Sushil Singh, 30, from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai. Several other people were reportedly injured in the attack.
The Native People Committee Manipur (NPC), which called the shutdown from midnight, has demanded strict action against the armed groups allegedly responsible for the killings. It has also sought the removal of unauthorised armed camps near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills and Khamenlok, additional security in vulnerable areas and a transparent, time-bound investigation.
The committee has further demanded a time-bound decision on the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, alleging political interference in security operations. These remain demands and allegations made by the committee.
Meanwhile, individuals detained after two victims’ bodies were brought to the gates of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s residence were released on Monday, according to reports. The protest had sought accountability and stronger security measures.
The NPC has accused the state government of failing to adequately protect civilians and urged the state and central governments to take immediate action. Health services, religious activities and essential services have been exempted from the shutdown. The committee has appealed to the public to maintain peace and allow ambulances and emergency services to operate without obstruction.
The killings and the statewide protest have renewed concerns about civilian safety amid Manipur’s continuing ethnic tensions.
