Imphal: Business owners at Kakching Lamkhai shuttered their shops today to stage a sit-in protest against the persistent financial demands they face from various organizations. Participants argued that these pressures have become unbearable, especially as the local economy continues to suffer from years of ongoing conflict in the state.
Yengkhom Nimai, an advisor to the Kakching Lamkhai Bazar Board, explained that the area's traders are struggling to provide for their families. He stated that many business owners have already been forced to abandon their shops to seek daily wage labor to survive. Nimai called for an immediate end to the practice of organizations contacting shopkeepers by phone to demand money.
Kshetrimayum Shandhyarani, a member of the board's executive committee, noted that the situation has deteriorated significantly since the crisis began in 2023. She highlighted that traders are currently dealing with a dual burden of financial extortion and pressure from law enforcement. Shandhyarani said, "She appealed to all concerned not to create fear or intimidation among members of the Bazar Board and the shopkeepers."
Beyond the demands for money, the protesters expressed frustration over being summoned and harassed by police officers. The board representatives urged all involved parties to stop the intimidation and allow local businesses to operate without further interference.
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