Manipur violence: Total shutdown grips valley areas, demands for safe release of missing students

In a renewed wave of unrest, Manipur's valley areas were brought to a standstill as a total shutdown, called by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in connection with the alleged abduction of two students, Avinash Maibam and Ningthoujam Anthony, severely impacted normal life. The valley echoed with demands for the safe release of the missing students amid growing frustration over the government's perceived sluggish response.

The two students, hailing from Akham under Imphal West, have been missing since November 5, fueling outrage and calls for justice. Irate protestors took to the streets, blocking roads in support of the shutdown and vehemently demanding the state government to expedite efforts in locating the missing students.

Tongbram Manitombi, a member of the JAC, expressed deep concern over the government's alleged lack of swift action in resolving the situation. Manitombi conveyed that despite meeting Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Governor Anusuiya Uikey, and MP Leishemba Sanajaoba immediately after the students' disappearance, the government's assurances have not translated into effective action.

"The government's efforts seem slow and unsatisfactory. While we initially trusted that our missing children would be safely returned, it's been almost five days, and our faith has waned," lamented Manitombi. Despite the government's arrest of two individuals in connection with the case, Manitombi stressed the need for expedited action.

The JAC, along with civil society organizations and student bodies, has vowed to persist in its efforts until justice is served, and the missing students are safely returned. The unrest has escalated further, with citizens raising slogans condemning the alleged abduction and expressing solidarity with the families of the missing students.

Family members and local representatives have met with the governor, chief minister, and MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, submitting memoranda seeking their intervention. While assurances were given regarding the commitment to taking all necessary measures to locate the missing students, as of now, the efforts have not yielded success.