IMPHAL, Oct 1: A 48-hour general strike has been launched in Thoubal district, triggered by the government’s inability to secure the release of two Meitei youths abducted by armed Kuki militants. The bandh, organized by a Joint Action Committee (JAC) in response to the abduction, commenced at 3 AM today.
The strike has led to the shutdown of the Asian Highway No. 1 and closure of shops and services, except for medical and religious activities. The two youths, Oinam Thoithoi Singh and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh, were kidnapped on September 27 while heading to the 33 Assam Rifles camp in New Keithelmanbi for the SSC General Duty recruitment test, along with a third youth, Ngangom Johnson, who was rescued by the Army the following day.
JAC co-convenor Keisam Yaiphaba stated that the bandh decision followed an unsuccessful meeting with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, after a 7 PM deadline on September 30 to secure the youths’ release passed without resolution. Protests broke out across Thoubal, with residents blocking the Asian Highway, and women vendors closing their shops in support.
The JAC has pledged to escalate their protests if the government does not ensure the safe return of the abducted youths.
