The Native People Committee Manipur has called for a 48-hour statewide general strike beginning at midnight on October 19. The shutdown has been organized to demand the immediate arrest of those responsible for the killing of three Meitei firewood collectors in the Imphal East district within a 48-hour window. The committee has adopted a stern stance against the government over the worsening security situation in the region.
Scope of the Strike and Exemptions
The general strike extends across both the hill and valley districts of Manipur. To ensure that daily life is not completely paralyzed, the organizers have exempted health services, religious activities, and essential services from the purview of the shutdown. The committee stated that the agitation aims to compel both the state and central governments to adopt concrete measures to safeguard civilians and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Details of the Victims
The deceased individuals were identified as 40-year-old Lairenpakpam Inaobi Meitei and 35-year-old Aribam Noni Meitei, both residents of Nongshum, along with 30-year-old Ksh. Sushil Singh from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai. These individuals were reportedly collecting firewood when the fatal attack occurred. Criticizing the state administration, the organization noted that repeated assurances of normalcy have failed to protect civilians whose livelihoods depend entirely on forests and agricultural lands.
Key Demands and Political Accountability
The committee has placed several stringent demands before the authorities. These include immediate military action against armed groups linked to the assault, with civilian protection treated as the topmost priority. Furthermore, the group has demanded the identification of unauthorized armed camps located near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills and Khamenlok. Another major political demand is the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen pending a transparent inquiry into alleged political interference in security operations, alongside lawful action against KNF(P) Chairman SS Thangboi Kipgen.
Security Enhancements and Investigation
The NPCM has also called for a time-bound decision regarding the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations agreement, urging a clear public commitment from the Government of India. To prevent further violence, the committee wants additional security forces, including India Reserve Battalion units, deployed in vulnerable areas to secure forest access routes. Additionally, they demanded a transparent and time-bound investigation into the incident, alongside credible and enforceable security guarantees for indigenous residents traveling to agricultural and forest areas for their livelihood. Manipur
