Manipur Shutdown Disrupts Normal Life In Imphal Valley, Hill Areas

Normal life across Manipur’s Imphal valley and Naga-dominated hill regions remained severely disrupted on Monday as shutdowns enforced by various organisations continued.

Authorities confirmed the arrest of 21 individuals linked to violent incidents during a rally in Imphal West district.

In the valley, Meira Paibis and several Civil Society Organisations initiated a shutdown spanning five to six districts.

The protest followed the killing of two minor children and the injury of their mother in Bishnupur district on April 7, allegedly by suspected Kuki militants.

The shutdown began at midnight on Saturday, bringing daily activities to a near standstill.

Women protesters blocked roads and restricted vehicular movement at multiple locations. Police reported that transport services ceased, while markets and commercial establishments remained closed.

In the hill regions, the United Naga Council enforced a separate three-day shutdown across Naga-inhabited areas from midnight Sunday.

The action protested the killing of two Naga civilians, including a retired Army personnel, in Ukhrul district on April 18.

The UNC stated the shutdown would continue until April 23, accompanied by candlelight vigils to honour the deceased and express solidarity. Essential services remain exempt.

Police detailed that a torch rally on April 18 along the Imphal–Jiribam road turned violent.

Protesters allegedly hurled stones, petrol bombs, and used catapults, injuring several personnel, including three CRPF members, and damaging official vehicles.

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity criticised security forces for alleged excesses and faulted the Chief Minister for failing to control unrest.

The state government has decided to hand over both major incidents to the National Investigation Agency for a comprehensive probe.

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