Large parts of Manipur came to a standstill on Monday as separate shutdowns by different groups disrupted daily life across both valley and hill districts amid rising tensions.
Markets, schools, and transport services remained shut in Meitei-majority valley areas as well as Naga-dominated districts like Ukhrul and Senapati. Sit-in protests were reported in parts of Imphal, including Uripok and Nagaram, reflecting widespread anger among residents.
Protests Erupt After Deadly Blast
The shutdown in the valley was led by the women’s group Meira Paibis following a deadly blast on April 7 in Tronglaobi village in Bishnupur district.
The explosion killed two children—a five-year-old boy and his infant sister—and left their mother seriously injured. The incident sparked outrage, with protesters demanding justice.
“Justice for the victims. Stringent action against the culprits,” lawyers shouted during a protest at a court complex in Imphal.
Tensions escalated further when protests turned violent after demonstrators allegedly stormed a security camp. Security forces opened fire, killing three people and injuring around 30 others.
Hill Areas Observe Separate Bandh
At the same time, the United Naga Council enforced a three-day shutdown in hill districts to protest an ambush on April 18 near TM Kasom village in Ukhrul.
In the attack, suspected militants opened fire on a convoy of civilian vehicles, killing a retired Army officer and another civilian. Several others were injured.
Condemning the incident, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said, “This cowardly attack on civilians is unacceptable.”
Clashes and Police Action in Imphal
Violence intensified in Imphal over the weekend during protests and torch rallies. In Thangmeiband, clashes broke out after security forces stopped demonstrators from moving towards a key market area.
At least six people, including three personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force, were injured.
Authorities used tear gas, batons, rubber bullets, and even live rounds to disperse crowds, while protesters responded by throwing stones and petrol bombs. Police later arrested more than 20 people linked to the violence.
Ongoing Tensions and Public Anger
Protests have continued across several areas, with people accusing authorities of slow action. “No arrests in the main case even after many days,” a protester said, expressing frustration over delays in the investigation.
Meanwhile, Kuki-Zo groups have denied involvement in the violence and urged people not to spread misinformation.
The state government has appealed for calm. “These incidents are attempts to derail peace efforts,” Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said, urging people to maintain peace.
Fragile Peace Since 2023 Violence
The latest unrest comes against the backdrop of ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities that began in May 2023.
More than 260 people have been killed and thousands displaced since the violence began. Although authorities have taken steps to restore normalcy, repeated incidents continue to disrupt peace.
