Manipur: 24-hour total shutdown paralyzes normal life in valley region

A 24-hour shutdown called by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in connection with the Salungpham incident has severely disrupted normal life across the valley region of Manipur. 

The strike, which began at 6 PM yesterday, demands justice for the killing of an 18-year-old village volunteer, Laishram Prem, allegedly at the hands of Thoubal district police commandos.

The shutdown gained traction as local clubs, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) Women’s Wing extended their support. Roads across the valley remained deserted, government office attendance was significantly reduced, and business establishments were shuttered. However, essential services and medical emergencies were exempted from the strike.

The JAC has put forth few demands- strict action against the police officials allegedly involved in the death of Laishram Prem and the unconditional release of six village defense volunteers arrested during the Salungpham incident in Thoubal district.

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The incident, which occurred on December 14 near Salungpham High School in Salungpham Maning Leikai, has sparked widespread outrage. According to the Manipur Police, the youth was killed during an encounter and was alleged to be a cadre of a proscribed outfit. In contrast, the family of the deceased, the JAC, and local meira paibis (women activists) assert that Laishram Prem was a village volunteer, not affiliated with any militant group.

The JAC has resolved not to claim the body of Laishram Prem until their demands are met.

The killing has evoked strong emotions among the public, with many viewing it as an unjust action against village defense volunteers safeguarding their communities. The incident has become a flashpoint in the region, with the shutdown serving as a demonstration of collective anger and a demand for accountability from the authorities.