Manipur: Sit-In Protests, Mass Cease Work Mark Third Day of Unrest Over Farmers’ Killing

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Hundreds of protesters staged sit-in demonstrations across Imphal Valley, Manipur, on Thursday as a day long mass cease-work call was observed over the killing of three Meitei farmers in an ambush earlier this week.

The protests followed two days of shutdowns in the valley, where demonstrations turned tense as security forces clashed with protesters attempting to reach Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand’s residence. At least six protesters were injured during the recent unrest.

A committee formed over the killings appealed to residents to suspend work and hold sit-ins at localities, offices, educational institutions and marketplaces. Several markets, including Khwairamband Ima, opened around 9.30 am before shops shut in response to the protest call.

The three Meitei farmers were killed in an ambush on Monday. Subsequently, a 45-year-old Kuki man collecting bamboo shoots was killed, while at least six Kuki houses were reportedly set ablaze, further escalating tensions.

Protesters have refused to accept the bodies of the three slain men until those responsible are arrested. On Monday, two bodies were placed outside the Chief Minister’s residence during demonstrations over the alleged failure to protect civilians.

Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which erupted in May 2023, has claimed at least 360 lives and displaced tens of thousands of people.

Also Read: Manipur: NPCM’s 48 Hour Shutdown Over Killing of 3 Meitei People Disrupts Normal Life