Ukhrul: A coalition of 13 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has imposed a 24-hour shutdown across Manipur accusing state government of inaction regarding recent violent incidents.
The shutdown, which began Tuesday afternoon until 6 PM Wednesday, was announced during a press conference held by the union of CSOs at IPSA office in Keishampat.
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Essential services, media, and religious functions will be exempted from the shutdown.
Representatives from the coalition, including Nahakpam Santa, criticised the state government’s lack of response to the continuous attacks allegedly carried out by Kuki militants, which have escalated tensions and displaced many in the valley. Santa accused the government of failing to safeguard the indigenous Meitei population and demanded that authorities outline their strategy for restoring peace within 24 hours.
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The coalition also condemned recent incidents where Kuki militants reportedly attacked and torched Meitei residences, attempted kidnappings, and clash with CRPF personnel in Jiribam District. Furthermore, the CSOs demanded that the government take immediate steps to locate six missing hostages, including children, who were allegedly abducted by Kuki militants, and urged the government to serve justice for Sapam Sophia, a victim of an attack on November 9.
Failure to address these demands within 24 hours, Santa warned, would lead to escalated public agitation led by the union of CSOs.
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