Imphal, Oct 23: Normal life across Manipur’s valley region was disrupted on Friday as a 48-hour general strike called by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) over the killing of Laishram Rakesh began at 5 am, with educational institutions, offices and commercial establishments remaining closed. The shutdown came even as police confirmed the arrest of two people in connection with the Khangabok–Sangaiyumpham violence.
Rakesh was killed by a bullet during clashes between two communities in the Khangabok–Sangaiyumpham area of Thoubal district late on October 18. Several other people were injured, while some houses and vehicles were reportedly set on fire during the violence.
The strike was called to protest what the JAC described as the government’s failure to bring those responsible for Rakesh’s death to justice. Protesters blocked roads, burned tyres and urged shopkeepers to shut their establishments across parts of Thoubal district.
Since early morning, residents of Khangabok gathered along National Highway 102, also known as the Imphal–Moreh road, and staged blockades that brought vehicular movement to a halt. Movement was restricted, with exemptions reportedly allowed for medical emergencies, press personnel and religious activities.
The shutdown also affected Yaripok Bazar, where groups of bandh supporters visited the area and asked shopkeepers to keep their establishments closed. Similar protests, including road blockades and tyre burning, were reported from other parts of Thoubal district.
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo said a joint team comprising Manipur Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Assam Rifles conducted a combing operation in the general area of Sangaiyumpham Cherapur from around 4 am.
During the operation, security personnel searched 146 houses and verified more than 300 people. Four suspects were detained, of whom two were formally arrested in connection with the case, Lhatoo said.
A double-barrel gun was also seized and sent for forensic examination as part of the investigation.
Lhatoo appealed to the public to remain calm and allow the police and security forces to continue their investigation. He also urged people not to take the law into their own hands.
JAC seeks further action
Despite the arrests, the JAC maintained its demand for further action against those responsible for Rakesh’s killing.
JAC member Kh. Santa said four days had passed since the incident and alleged that justice had not been delivered despite daily sit-in protests. He also expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as a lack of support or a statement from the Sangaiyumpham side regarding efforts to bring the accused to justice.
The JAC submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday, seeking action in the case. The 48-hour strike is aimed at intensifying pressure on the authorities to address the demands.
Thoubal district police remained on alert to prevent further incidents as the shutdown continued.