SENAPATI, Nov 3:     A 24-hour shutdown called by the Senapati Frontal Organization disrupted normal life in Senapati district. The shutdown, which began at 4 p.m. on Saturday, led to the closure of markets and businesses. By Sunday, public transport was mostly absent, although a few private vehicles were seen on the roads, giving the streets a largely deserted appearance.

Despite the disruption, essential services continued to operate, ensuring healthcare and other vital services were accessible.

The shutdown was organized by the Naga People’s Organization (NPO), Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), and Senapati District Women’s Association (SDWA) in response to ongoing harassment and extortion, reportedly by individuals from the Meitei and Kuki communities since ethnic violence began in Manipur. This action was further provoked by a recent incident where two Senapati residents, V. Hrangao Blesson from Kodom Khullen Village and Dalou from Liyai Khullen Village, allegedly became victims of attempted murder and were coerced at gunpoint into paying Rs. 61,400 to armed assailants.

The Senapati Frontal Organization voiced frustration over what they described as an absence of intervention or support from the Civil Society Organization (CSO) representing the attackers’ community, noting that the alleged perpetrators have denied involvement despite the victims identifying them.

With strong public backing, the 24-hour shutdown concluded peacefully and without incident. The organizations have now implemented an indefinite restriction on commercial vehicular movement beyond the Senapati headquarters, as part of their ongoing protest. They urged continued community support to protect their people’s rights and safety.

The organizations also expressed gratitude to the public and commuters for their cooperation throughout the shutdown.