Naga Council Announces Total Shutdown in Manipur Following Civilian Killings
Total Shutdown Declared by United Naga Council
Members of the apex Naga body in Manipur during a press meet in Tahamzam. (AT Photo)
Imphal, April 19: The United Naga Council (UNC) has announced a complete shutdown lasting three days across all Naga regions in Manipur. This action is a response to the tragic deaths of two Naga civilians in Ukhrul district, which the council has labeled as a 'barbaric' and 'premeditated' act.
The shutdown will commence at midnight on April 20 and conclude at midnight on April 23, as stated by the apex Naga organization in Manipur on Sunday.
Throughout this three-day period, all public and private entities, as well as vehicular traffic, will be halted, with the exception of emergency services, according to the council's announcement.
This decision was made during a Joint Emergency Meeting held at the UNC's office in Tahamzam (Senapati headquarters), which included representatives from the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Women’s Union (NWU), and various district apex organizations.
The council condemned the killings of the two civilians at TM-Kasom village along National Highway-202, attributing the attack to suspected militants. They accused Kuki militants of being responsible and characterized the incident as 'a serious assault on the dignity, safety, and territorial integrity of the Naga people.'
Additionally, the council expressed deep concern regarding the State Government's management of security in Naga territories, questioning its commitment to maintaining peace and order.
They highlighted that the incident occurred shortly after the Chief Minister and Home Minister's visit to Ukhrul, suggesting that they should bear moral responsibility for the worsening security conditions.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for April 23 at 6:30 PM across Naga district headquarters and in Imphal to honor the victims of the ambush.
The council urged all Naga citizens, organizations, and institutions to fully support the shutdown and adhere to the resolutions made.
Furthermore, the UNC declared that during this mourning period, the Naga community in Manipur would cease all social and economic interactions with the Kukis, in line with traditional customs.