Northeast Desk, 2nd October: The 48-hour general strike called by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) against the Manipur government escalated today, spreading across the state in protest over the abduction of two youths by militants. The JAC, formed in response to the abductions, announced the strike on October 1, following what they described as the government’s failure to secure the youths’ release.
The bandh, which began in Thoubal district on October 1, saw widespread participation as highways and roads were blocked by large groups of protesters. Key markets in the district, including Lilong Keithel, Thoubal Keithel, Babu Keithel, Athokpam Keithel, Yairipok Tampha Keithel, New Market, and Wangjing Keithel, were shut down, with banks and government offices also remaining closed. Public transport services were completely halted, though students, religious functions, and emergency services such as medical care were exempted from the strike.
Despite the police maintaining a heavy presence in sensitive areas, the strike received significant public support. The JAC spokesperson, Irom Bimol, issued a stern warning, stating that if the Government of India and the Manipur state government failed to rescue the abducted youths within 48 hours, more intense protests could erupt. “People have been patient, waiting for the safe and unconditional release of the youths, but the government’s repeated requests for more time since September 27 have led to growing frustration,” Bimol said.
On October 1, peaceful sit-in protests were staged at Thoubal Mela Ground, but the strike gained momentum as the government failed to meet its own assurances, prompting the JAC to take stronger action. Bimol also noted that the ongoing ethnic tensions between the Chin-Kuki community and others had exacerbated the situation, inflaming public sentiment. “The aggression has hurt the sentiments of many, and we fear that we will not be able to contain the public’s anger if the youths are not returned to their families within 48 hours,” Bimol warned.
The JAC has called on both state and central authorities to act swiftly to resolve the crisis, emphasizing that further delays could lead to uncontrollable unrest.
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