Photo Courtesy: northeasttoday
Imphal: Normal life across Zeliangrongpui inhabited areas of Manipur came to a standstill on Monday due to an indefinite emergency shutdown. The Joint Tribes Council, which represents the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme communities, initiated the protest to demand the safe return of six Naga civilians allegedly abducted by suspected Kuki militants on May 13.
The shutdown paralyzed major transport routes, specifically affecting Noney district and National Highway 37, the vital link between Imphal and Jiribam. With business establishments, banks, and fuel stations closed, the region remained largely deserted. Only vehicles involved in essential services were permitted to operate as supporters enforced the blockade.
The impact of the protest is visible along NH 37, where more than 250 loaded vehicles, including oil tankers and goods carriers, are currently stranded between the Leingangpokpi outpost and Jiribam. This disruption has raised concerns regarding the supply of essential goods into the state.
The Joint Tribes Council maintains that the agitation will continue until the six abducted individuals are safely released and authorities hold those responsible accountable. Tribal leaders continue to pressure the state government to secure the missing people and address security concerns in the hill districts.
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