Source: The Imphal Free Press
Imphal, August 05:
Normal life was seriously affected in Manipur, particularly the valley districts today during the 12 hour general strike called by the United Committee, Manipur demanding unconditional release of 44 persons arrested during the movement against the extension of the NSCN(IM) ceasefire.
The general strike, which began at 5 am this morning, ended peacefully at 5 pm.
No untoward incident has been reported.
The capital, Imphal, wore a deserted look as markets, shops and business establishments remained closed while vehicular traffic connecting district headquarters were suspended in view of the bandh.
Security was deployed in strength at various places to prevent any untoward incident.
All shops and markets in Imphal bazar, including Paona bazar, Thangal bazar, and the BT road shopping complex remained shut.
The Khwairamband Ima market was completedly deserted.
Other smaller markets, such as Singjamei bazar, Kwakeithel bazar and Kongba bazar were also shut in support of the general strike.
There was little vehicular traffic on the main roads, except for some two wheelers, and children at various places took the opportunity to play cricket and other games on the nearly deserted roads.
Strike supporters burnt tyres and placed wooden beams on the road to block the movement of vehicles along the Mayai Lambi road and in the Sekmaijin area this morning.
The roads were however cleared by personnel of the 16 Assam Rifles in the afternoon.
Reports reaching here add that the general strike also seriously affected life in other valley districts.
Thoubal, Kakching, Bishnupur, Moirang and Nambol towns wore a deserted look as shops and vendors remained shut, and people stayed off the streets.
Meanwhile, the United Committee Manipur has declared they would launch a series of agitations to demand unconditional release of the 44 persons including AMSU president O Shyamchand, AMSU secretary general Ch Khongsai and senior AMSU advisor Ch Chidananda.