Manipur tribal council enforces total shutdown over missing Naga civilians

Imphal: The Joint Tribes Council Manipur has initiated an emergency shutdown across the Zeliangrong region to protest the ongoing disappearance of six Naga civilians. These individuals were allegedly abducted on May 13, and the organization has vowed to maintain the strike until the missing men are found and returned safely.

Tensions flared after authorities moved to release 14 Kuki refugees while the fate of the six civilians remained unaddressed. The council claims the abduction involved refugees from Leilon Veiphei Kuki village working alongside illegal militants. They criticized the government for prioritizing the release of the refugees, labeling the decision a significant failure of justice that compromises the safety of local Naga communities.

The shutdown mandates a total cessation of all business and public activities. Operations at schools, offices, and banks have been suspended, and transport services including private vehicles are barred from the roads. Public gatherings are also prohibited until further notice.

To resolve the crisis, the council has issued four primary demands. They are calling for the immediate recovery of the missing men, the detention of the 14 refugees until the victims are accounted for, a formal investigation into the alleged involvement of militants, and greater accountability from the Manipur government. Local residents have been urged to comply with the directives to help pressure officials into taking decisive action.