Imphal:   Several banned insurgent groups in Manipur have jointly called for a total shutdown across the state on Independence Day, August 15. The groups, including the CorCom (a coalition of six outlawed organizations), the Socialist Revolutionary Party (SOREPA), and the Alliance for Socialist Unity Kangleipak (ASUK), have urged residents to refrain from participating in Independence Day events.

The CorCom has called for a shutdown from 1:00 AM to 6:30 PM, while SOREPA has called for a general strike from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM. ASUK has also called for a statewide shutdown and the display of black flags to mark the day as one of mourning.

The outfits have cited India’s alleged regressive policy as the reason for the widespread violence and turmoil in Manipur.

They describe Indian Independence Day as a day of sorrow for Kangleipak (Manipur), representing ongoing oppression by India.