General Strike Disrupts Life in Manipur Following Community Violence
Protests Erupt in Thoubal District
Protesters blocked roads, burned tyres and urged shopkeepers to shut their establishments across parts of Thoubal district.
Imphal, Oct 23: A general strike lasting 48 hours was initiated by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on Friday, significantly disrupting daily life in the valley region of Manipur. The strike commenced at 5 am, leading to the closure of schools, offices, and businesses. This action follows the tragic death of Laishram Rakesh, with police confirming the arrest of two individuals linked to the violence in Khangabok–Sangaiyumpham.
Rakesh was fatally shot during clashes between two communities in the Khangabok–Sangaiyumpham area on October 18. The violence resulted in injuries to several individuals, and reports indicated that some homes and vehicles were set ablaze.
The JAC organized the strike to protest against what they perceive as the government's failure to ensure justice for Rakesh's death. Protesters took to the streets, blocking roads, setting tyres on fire, and urging local shopkeepers to close their businesses throughout Thoubal district.
From early morning, residents of Khangabok gathered along National Highway 102, also known as the Imphal–Moreh road, creating blockades that halted traffic. Movement was restricted, although exceptions were made for medical emergencies, journalists, and religious activities.
The strike also impacted Yaripok Bazar, where supporters of the bandh encouraged shopkeepers to keep their establishments closed. Similar protests, including road blockades and tyre burning, were reported in other areas of Thoubal district.
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo stated that a joint operation involving Manipur Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and Assam Rifles was conducted in the Sangaiyumpham Cherapur area starting at 4 am.
During this operation, security forces searched 146 homes and verified over 300 individuals. Four suspects were detained, with two formally arrested in connection with the incident, according to Lhatoo.
A double-barrel gun was confiscated and sent for forensic analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
Lhatoo urged the public to maintain calm and allow law enforcement to proceed with their investigation, advising against taking the law into their own hands.
JAC Demands Further Action
Despite the arrests, the JAC continues to demand further accountability for those involved in Rakesh's death.
JAC member Kh. Santa expressed frustration, noting that four days had passed since the incident without justice being served, despite ongoing sit-in protests. He also criticized the lack of support or statements from the Sangaiyumpham community regarding efforts to ensure justice.
The JAC submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday, calling for action in the case. The ongoing strike aims to increase pressure on authorities to meet their demands.
Police in Thoubal district remain vigilant to prevent any further incidents as the strike continues.