A 48-hour shutdown has been initiated in Manipur in response to the killing of a young man, Laishram Rakesh, during clashes between two communities. The shutdown commenced at 5 am on Friday, with protesters blocking the National Highway in Thoubal district. Demonstrators are demanding the arrest of all individuals involved in Rakesh’s death, which occurred on October 18.

Protesters gathered early on Friday along the Imphal-Moreh road, obstructing traffic and burning tyres at various locations. The shutdown has led to significant restrictions on vehicle movement, although exemptions have been made for medical services, media personnel, and religious activities. Local police in Thoubal district are on high alert to maintain order and prevent any further incidents.

Authorities reported that the shutdown has been largely peaceful, with no incidents of violence reported thus far. The police are actively monitoring the situation, ensuring that public safety is maintained during the protests.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

In connection with the violent clashes, police have arrested a third suspect, identified as Aribam Sherkhan, on Sunday. Two additional suspects, Khursid Ahamad and Abdul Rahaman, were apprehended on Tuesday during a coordinated search operation involving local police and security forces. These arrests are part of ongoing efforts to address the violence that erupted in Khangabok village.

On Friday, police conducted further search operations in the Khangabok-Sangaiyumpham area, where they seized a double-barrel breech-loading gun and 14 rounds of 12-gauge shotgun ammunition. These actions are part of a broader initiative to ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.

The joint action committee (JAC) has submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, reiterating their demand for the arrest of all individuals involved in Rakesh’s killing. The committee has been conducting daily sit-in protests since the incident but remains dissatisfied with the pace of the investigation.

Details of the Incident on October 18

The violent clashes began on the night of October 18 when a group allegedly started throwing stones at a venue in Khangabok village, where a concert was taking place. Khangabok is situated approximately 25 km south of Imphal, the state capital. The situation escalated into widespread stone-pelting between members of the two communities, resulting in damage to several houses and vehicles.

During the chaos, unidentified individuals reportedly opened fire, striking Rakesh in the head. He was promptly taken to a nearby hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Several others sustained minor injuries from stone impacts and were also admitted to medical facilities for treatment.

In the aftermath of the clashes, district authorities imposed prohibitory orders in the affected areas, restricting residents from leaving their homes due to concerns over potential further violence and property damage. Additional security forces from both state and central agencies have been deployed to the villages to maintain peace and order, with the situation reportedly under control as of Monday morning.

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