Manipur Shutdown Paralyses Imphal Valley, 12 Districts Affected

Normal life across Manipur’s Imphal valley and several hill districts remained paralysed on Wednesday as shutdowns called by different organisations continued despite appeals from the state government. Officials said the disruptions have impacted 12 of the state’s 16 districts.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh have urged protesting groups to withdraw the shutdowns, but the appeals have not yielded results.

In the Imphal valley, shutdowns were called by the Meira Paibis along with several civil society organisations.

The killing of two minor children and the injury of their mother in Bishnupur district on April 7 triggered the protest. Suspected Kuki terrorists allegedly carried out the attack.

Since the shutdown began at midnight on April 18, daily life in the Meitei-dominated valley has come to a near standstill. Protesters, including groups of women, have blocked roads and restricted vehicular movement.

Police said both passenger and commercial vehicles have largely stayed off the roads, while shops and businesses remain closed.

In the hill regions, including Ukhrul district, the United Naga Council has enforced a separate shutdown. It has been in effect across Naga-inhabited areas since midnight on April 19.

This protest follows the killing of two Naga civilians, including a retired Army personnel, allegedly by suspected Kuki terrorists.

In Churachandpur, Zomi organisations under the Zomi Coordination Committee have imposed a 13-hour shutdown. They are demanding justice for the late Vungzagin Valte.

Markets, educational institutions, and businesses remained closed, though emergency services were allowed.

Valte, 62, had been undergoing treatment after sustaining injuries in the 2023 ethnic violence. His condition later worsened. He died at a private hospital in Gurugram on February 21. No untoward incidents have been reported so far.

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