The security forces utilised tear gas to disperse a crowd of protesters in Imphal West, Manipur, amid escalating tensions. The unrest stems from demonstrations held on April 19, 2023, in the Khurai Lamlong area, where participants were seeking justice for an alleged bomb attack that took place on April 7. The incident, which led to the tragic deaths of two young siblings, has ignited significant public outrage.

The bomb attack occurred around 1:00 AM in the Tronglaobi Awang Leikai area of Moirang. Suspected militants reportedly targeted the residence of a Meitei family, resulting in the deaths of a five-year-old boy and his five-month-old sister while they were sleeping. Their mother sustained injuries and was treated in hospital. The attack has drawn condemnation from various community leaders and activists, emphasising the need for justice.

In response, the Meira Paibi Lup, an organisation of women activists known as the Women Torch Bearers, has called for a total shutdown across Manipur that will last for seven days. This strike demands that the state government apprehend those responsible for the bomb attack by April 25. As a result of the shutdown, normal activities in many areas have been severely disrupted, with roads, markets, and business establishments remaining largely closed.

Community Responses to the Attack

Oinam Babuton, the grandfather of the deceased children, expressed the family’s rejection of a government ex-gratia payment. He has emphasised the need for justice rather than financial compensation. “The government said that they will give us an ex-gratia payment. But we do not want it. We don’t approve of it at all,” he stated, highlighting the family’s desire for accountability rather than monetary reparations.

He further noted that despite visits from police, National Investigation Agency (NIA) teams, and forensic experts, no tangible outcomes have been produced concerning the investigation. The family’s anguish is palpable, as they demand assurances that such devastating incidents will not recur in the future. The community remains on high alert, demanding more immediate and effective action from local authorities.

On the day of the protests, many expressed solidarity with the Babuton family, demonstrating their commitment to justice for the victims. Community leaders have indicated that further actions may be organised if there is no progress in the investigations. The sentiments shared among the residents reflect a growing concern for security and justice in light of such traumatic events.

Impact of the Shutdown on Local Life

The shutdown called by the Meira Paibi Lup has significantly impacted daily life in Manipur. Roads were mostly deserted, and public transport was notably sparse, as many commercial vehicles opted to remain off the roads. A few private vehicles were observed, but overall transportation was minimal. Markets and shops closed their shutters in solidarity with the protestors, as the community seeks to emphasise the gravity of the situation.

As the shutdown continues, the local economy is expected to see critical effects. Many residents rely on daily wages that are now disrupted due to the closures. The shutdown not only reflects the community’s anger but also highlights the economic vulnerabilities faced by many households during this period of unrest.

The situation remains dynamic, with local authorities closely monitoring the developments following the protests. Community leaders and activists assert that the urgency of the demands must be met with appropriate action from the government to prevent further discord within the region.

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