Imphal, Oct 2: Life in the Imphal Valley districts of Manipur was significantly disrupted on Wednesday due to a shutdown organized by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in response to the abduction of two Meitei youths. The committee was established after the youths were reportedly kidnapped from Kangpokpi district.
Shops and businesses closed their doors, and vehicle movement was halted in five districts: Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. Protesters, primarily women, blocked roads, particularly along National Highway-102.
Although protests occurred, no major violence was reported. Demonstrators burned tyres and enforced the shutdown in various areas, including Mela Ground in Thoubal district and parts of Imphal East.
The abduction took place on September 27, 2024, when three youths—Ningombam Johnson Singh, Oinam Thoithoi Singh, and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh—got lost while heading to the New Keithelmanbi area in Imphal West for an SSC GD recruitment exam. They inadvertently entered Kangpokpi, where they were allegedly taken by armed militants.
While Ningombam Johnson Singh was rescued by the Indian Army on the same day, Oinam Thoithoi Singh and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh are still missing. The JAC is calling for urgent action to ensure their safe return and accountability for the kidnappings.
