Urgent Alert: Manipur Paralyzed by 48-Hour General Strike as Statewide Bandh Intensifies – Communities in Uproar!
The 48-hour general strike initiated by a Joint Action Committee (JAC) against the Manipur government, demanding the release of two youths abducted by militants, intensified on October 2 as the bandh spread across the state. The strike, announced by the JAC on October 1, was initially confined to Thoubal district but gained momentum with widespread participation.
Since 3 am on October 1, the general strike in Thoubal saw significant public support, with residents blocking highways and local roads. The shutdown led to the closure of all major markets, including Lilong Keithel, Thoubal Keithel, Babu Keithel, Athokpam Keithel, Yairipok Tampha Keithel, New Market, and Wangjing Keithel. Banks and government offices in the district also remained closed, and public transport services were halted. However, essential services such as student activities, religious functions, and medical emergencies were exempted from the strike.
JAC spokesperson Irom Bimol warned of more severe actions if the government failed to rescue the abducted youths within 48 hours. He criticized the government for repeatedly asking for more time since September 27 without delivering results. Bimol mentioned that people had been staging peaceful protests, including a sit-in at Thoubal Mela Ground, in hopes of the youths’ safe and unconditional release.
The strike was a response to the government’s failure to honor its commitments, said Bimol. He also highlighted the ongoing Chin-Kuki aggression, which has deeply affected public sentiment. Bimol cautioned that the JAC might not be able to manage public anger if the government does not resolve the issue within the stipulated timeframe.
The JAC’s actions reflect rising frustration and urgency in the community, underlining the need for a swift and effective response from both the state and central governments to address the crisis and ensure the safe return of the abducted youths.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-48-hour-general-strike-intensifies-as-bandh-expands-statewide-1100818-2024-10-02?utm_source=rssfeed
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