Manipur: 24-hour statewide shutdown called after four Naga civilians killed
The Native People's Committee, Manipur has announced a strike to demand justice following an ambush in Ukhrul district.
The Native People's Committee, Manipur (NPCM), in coordination with Hill and Valley Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), has called for a 24-hour statewide shutdown from midnight on November 15 to midnight on November 16. The strike follows the killing of four Naga civilians in an ambush in Ukhrul district on Friday, according to reports from NENow, The Pioneer and The Hindu.
The victims, identified as Kapangkhui R.S., her son Haoleila R.S. of Shangshak village, and siblings August Ngalung and Khanmila Keising of Tashar village, were shot dead near New Heaven village. The incident occurred around 1 pm when unidentified gunmen opened fire on two vehicles travelling on National Highway 202. All four individuals died on the spot.
While Naga organisations suggested Kuki militants might be responsible, a Kuki organisation in Ukhrul has denied any role in the attack and requested an investigation based on evidence. The Hindu reported that several Kuki civil society organisations also condemned the killings and called for an impartial probe.
During the shutdown, shops, markets, private offices, educational institutions, and business establishments will close. Vehicular movement will be suspended across the state, though emergency services, including medical, fire, water, electricity, and media, are exempt.
Security forces, including the Manipur Police, Border Security Force (BSF), Army, and Assam Rifles, have been sent to the area to reinforce security. Search operations are currently underway to find those involved in the ambush.