Imphal: The bandh called by Kuki-Jo and Naga communities to protest against the killing of three church officials and a civilian was observed in three districts of Manipur. The impact of the bandh was most visible in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur and Chandel districts. There was very little attendance of employees in government offices, while educational institutions remained closed. Markets also remained closed in many areas.
life affected due to bandh
According to the information, ‘Kuki Inpi Manipur’, the apex body of Kuki tribes in the state, has called for a 48-hour strike in Manipur from Thursday midnight. The protesters forced closure of markets, commercial activities and vehicular movement on National Highway 2 (NH-2) in the Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district. This highway connects Imphal to Dimapur. ‘Zomi Students Federation – General Headquarters’ based in Churachandpur district has called for an indefinite bandh in the urban areas of the district from 6 pm on Wednesday. ‘Chandel Naga People’s Organization’ has also announced a bandh from Wednesday evening. Due to this bandh, commercial activities and vehicular movement came to a complete halt.
what is the whole matter
According to police officials, Wilson Thanga was returning to Dolong village with his wife on a four-wheeler when they were attacked by suspected militants. Thanga died on the spot in the attack, while his wife was injured. At least 260 people have died and thousands have been displaced in the violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur since May 2023.
More than 38 people from Kuki and Naga communities taken hostage
Meanwhile, Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam said on Thursday that “more than 38 people” belonging to the Naga and Kuki communities have been taken hostage by various groups in the state. This statement came at a time when three church officials were killed and four others were injured in an attack by suspected militants in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday, while a civilian was shot dead and his wife injured in Noni district.
