Items filtered by date: Wednesday, 19 August 2026

JFD Strike Disrupts Normal Life Across Manipur

Imphal, August 19: The second day of the 48-hour general strike called by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) demanding NRC updation before the Census disrupted normal life across Manipur today. Protesters blocked roads at several locations by burning tyres and placing stones and logs. The strike was strongly observed in Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur, while major commercial centres including Khwairamband Ima Market, Paona Bazar and Thangal Bazar remained closed. Most oil pumps also shut down, educational institutions declared holidays and government offices recorded low attendance. Essential services, including medical emergencies, water, electricity and media activities, were exempted.

JFD Announces Boycott of Government Offices

Imphal, August 19: The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation has announced a boycott of government offices under both the State and Central governments from tomorrow as part of its intensified “No NRC, No Census” movement. Speaking at WAL United Youths Club in Wangkhei, JFD Convenor Jitendra Ningomba said essential services, including healthcare, water supply, electricity and the education sector, would remain exempted from the boycott. He urged people to approach their respective MLAs from tomorrow and seek clarification on their positions regarding NRC updation. JFD also called for widespread protest meetings during the day and torch rallies in the evening.

Tension at Khurai Lamlong as Protesters Burn Effigies

Imphal, August 19: Tension escalated at Khurai Lamlong today during the JFD-called “No NRC, No Census” strike after protesters burned effigies of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand and Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam. Protesters had blocked the road from early morning by burning tyres and placing tree branches across the route. A confrontation broke out when Imphal East Police attempted to disperse the demonstrators. One youth sustained an injury to his hand during the scuffle. Following the confrontation, protesters intensified their agitation by burning the effigies. The road at Khurai Lamlong remained blocked, although essential services continued to operate.

Imphal-Ukhrul Road Blocked During JFD Strike

Imphal, August 19: The JFD general strike affected normal life along the Imphal-Ukhrul road today, with protesters blocking roads at several locations. The agitation began at Lamlong Market and spread to different points along the route, including Lamlai Market. Markets and shops remained closed in most areas, while vehicular movement was largely disrupted. Only some pharmacies continued operations to meet essential needs. The road blockades formed part of the statewide “No NRC, No Census” campaign launched by JFD, with protesters demanding updation of the National Register of Citizens before the Census exercise is conducted in Manipur.

Imphal-Tiddim Road Blocked at Multiple Points

Imphal, August 19: Supporters of the JFD general strike blocked the Imphal-Tiddim Road at several locations today, severely affecting vehicular movement. The road blockade began around Malom Bazaar before spreading to multiple points along the highway. Protesters used road blockades as part of the ongoing “No NRC, No Census” agitation, demanding that the National Register of Citizens be updated before the Census. The disruption added to the impact of the statewide general strike, which has affected transportation, business activities and movement across several districts. Essential services were allowed to operate despite the widespread road blockades.

JFD Strike Strongly Observed in Jiribam

Jiribam, August 19: The JFD general strike had a strong impact on normal life in Jiribam district on its second day today. Supporters from various organisations came out at several locations and blocked roads, disrupting vehicular movement. Jiri Market, the district’s main commercial centre, remained closed, while schools, colleges, banks and government offices also stayed shut. Public and vehicular movement was largely affected, except for emergency and essential services. Security forces were deployed at several locations as a precautionary measure to prevent untoward incidents during the strike. The agitation is part of JFD’s statewide demand for NRC updation before the Census.

Kakching Markets Shut, Roads Blocked

Kakching, August 19: The JFD general strike also disrupted normal life in Kakching district today. Markets remained closed and roads wore a deserted look as protesters blocked several key locations, including Hiyanglam Wabagai Lamkhai Keithel, Kakching Keithel, Langmeidong and Pangaltabi. Protesters also stopped the movement of Central security forces in some areas. The road blockades were part of the continuing “No NRC, No Census” agitation, with JFD and supporting organisations demanding NRC updation before the Census. The shutdown affected commercial activity and vehicular movement throughout the district, while essential services continued to remain exempted from the strike.

Mayai Lambi Hit by Road Blockades

Imphal, August 19: The JFD strike disrupted normal life along Mayai Lambi today, with road blockades reported at several locations along NH-137A. Protesters blocked roads at Langthabal Phuramakhong, Takhellambam Konjil, Wangoi, Mayang Imphal, Uchiwa and Sekmaijin. Markets and shops remained closed, while passenger vehicles stayed off the road. The disruptions were part of the statewide agitation demanding NRC updation before the Census. The prolonged road blockades have affected transportation and commercial activities in several parts of Manipur, although essential services have been exempted from the general strike.

Road Blockades Reported at Singjamei and Moirangkhom

Imphal, August 19: JFD supporters blocked roads at Singjamei, Yaiskul and Moirangkhom today as part of the ongoing “No NRC, No Census” general strike. The blockades affected vehicular movement in the areas and added to widespread disruptions across Imphal and other districts. Protesters have been demanding that the National Register of Citizens be updated before the government proceeds with the Census exercise. The agitation has resulted in the closure of markets, shops and educational institutions at several locations, while essential services continue to operate.

AKRUCO Supports JFD Strike

Imphal, August 19: The All Kongba Road United Clubs Organisation (AKRUCO) extended support to the JFD’s “No NRC, No Census” strike today and staged a road blockade protest at Kongba Kshetri Leikai. Members of the organisation joined the wider mobilisation demanding NRC updation before the Census. The road blockade disrupted vehicular movement in the locality as protesters called for the government to address concerns over the Census exercise and illegal immigration. AKRUCO’s participation adds to the growing number of local clubs, civil society organisations and women’s groups supporting the JFD-led agitation across Manipur.

Residents Protest at Langdum Lamkhai

Imphal, August 19: Residents from Keirao, Langdum, Khanarok, Phunal Maring, Yaipharok Maring, Uran Chiru, Keirao Wangkhem and Chanam Sandrok staged a protest at Langdum Lamkhai today. The protesters demanded that the National Register of Citizens be updated before the Census is conducted in Manipur. The demonstration was part of the wider “No NRC, No Census” movement led by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation. Participants raised concerns over demographic changes and the need to protect the interests of indigenous communities. The protest also added to the road blockades and demonstrations held across the state during the JFD strike.

Sana Konung Meira Paibi Blocks Palace Compound Road

Imphal, August 19: Members of the Sana Konung Meira Paibi Lup blocked Palace Compound Road today in support of the JFD’s general strike demanding NRC updation before the Census. General Secretary Yumnam Ebeyaima criticised elected representatives over their handling of the NRC demand and also condemned police action against student protesters. The women protesters said the government should address public concerns before proceeding with the Census exercise. The road blockade was part of a series of demonstrations organised by Meira Paibis, local clubs and civil society organisations across Manipur during the second day of the JFD-called statewide strike.

Indigenous Women Protest at Sekmai

Imphal, August 19: Meira Paibi members from both the hills and valley staged a protest at Sekmai Bazar today under the banner of the North Indigenous Women Organisation. The protesters demanded updation of the National Register of Citizens before the Census. The demonstration formed part of the statewide “No NRC, No Census” agitation, with women’s groups and civil society organisations increasingly joining the movement. Protesters raised concerns over demographic changes and called on the government to address the issue of NRC before proceeding with Census-related exercises.

Uripok and Naoremthong Groups Block Roads

Imphal, August 19: Clubs and Meira Paibi groups from Uripok and Naoremthong carried out road blockade protests at several locations along the Uripok-Kangchup Road today. The protest began from the Imphal West Deputy Commissioner’s office gate and formed part of the JFD-led “No NRC, No Census” movement. Protesters demanded that the NRC be updated before the Census and raised concerns over the impact of the exercise on indigenous communities. The blockades disrupted vehicular movement in the area as similar protests continued at several locations across Manipur during the second day of the statewide general strike.

Thangmeiband Groups Join JFD Strike

Imphal, August 19: THYO Club of Thangmeiband Lourung Purel Leikai and Meira Paibi members of Thangmeiband Polem Leikai staged a protest in front of Tulsi Motors today in support of the JFD general strike. The protesters demanded NRC updation before the Census and expressed solidarity with the ongoing “No NRC, No Census” movement. The demonstration was among several protests and road blockades held across Imphal and other districts during the second day of the statewide strike. Local clubs and women’s organisations have been playing a significant role in mobilising residents and maintaining the protest movement.

Indigenous Groups Back NRC Demand

Imphal, August 19: The Joint Tribes Council Manipur has extended support to the demand for NRC updation before conducting any Census or delimitation exercise in Manipur. The United Meitei-Pangal Committee, Manipur, has also extended support to the JFD’s “No NRC, No Census” agitation. Both organisations backed the demand amid growing protests across the state. The support reflects concerns among different communities over demographic changes and the need to identify Indian citizens before population enumeration and delimitation exercises are undertaken. The organisations have called for the government to address the NRC issue before moving ahead with the Census.

Brahmapur Women Association Holds Protest

Imphal, August 19: Members of the Brahmapur Women Association of Brahmapur Laljilakpa Leikai staged a protest at Bamon Leikai today in support of the JFD-led movement demanding NRC updation before the Census. Shops remained closed and roads were blocked in the locality as residents joined the statewide general strike. The women protesters raised concerns over the Census exercise and called for the government to first address the demand for NRC updation. The demonstration was part of widespread protests across Imphal and other districts during the second day of the JFD general strike.

BJP MLAs Leave for Delhi Over NRC-Census Issue

Imphal, August 19: BJP Manipur Pradesh General Secretary and NRC-Census Committee Convenor K. Saratkumar, along with Uripok MLA Kh. Raghumani and Lamlai MLA Ksh. Ibomcha, left Imphal for New Delhi today to discuss the NRC and Census issue with Central leaders. The leaders reportedly departed on an IndiGo flight around noon. Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam is already in New Delhi in connection with the issue. More BJP MLAs, including Dr. S. Ranjan, P. Brojen and T. Robindro, are expected to travel to Delhi tomorrow. The delegation is expected to press the Centre on Manipur’s concerns regarding NRC updation and the Census.

14 CSOs Back MLAs’ Delhi Mission

Imphal, August 19: Fourteen civil society organisations of Kangleipak have extended support to the ongoing Delhi visit by Manipur MLAs seeking NRC updation before the Census. Speaking at the IPSA office in Keishampat, Convenor Shanta Nahakpam said representatives of the CSOs would also leave for New Delhi tomorrow to meet Central leaders and reiterate the demand. He said the organisations want Indian citizens to be identified through NRC before the Census and delimitation exercises. The CSOs also expressed support for tripartite talks involving the Centre, State Government and civil society organisations before delimitation is undertaken.

Census Training Cancelled in Lilong

Imphal, August 19: The Census training programme for appointed supervisors, enumerators and field trainers in Lilong has been cancelled. Sub-Divisional Officer Lilong Moirangthem Priyaroshni issued a release today informing that the order issued on August 17 regarding the training programme now stands cancelled. The cancellation comes amid widespread protests and a statewide general strike led by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation against conducting the Census before NRC updation. The development follows disruptions to Census-related training programmes at several locations across Manipur, where protesters have been demanding that the government first address concerns surrounding the NRC.

Census Training Continues in Pherzawl

Pherzawl, August 19: A three-day Census 2027 House Listing and Housing Census Phase-I training programme for enumerators and supervisors is underway at Rengkai Government Higher Secondary School in Pherzawl district. The training is being conducted for Census Charge Officers of Thanlon and Vangai in the district. The programme is taking place amid widespread protests elsewhere in Manipur against the Census exercise and demands for NRC updation beforehand. While training has been cancelled in Lilong, authorities in Pherzawl have continued with the scheduled programme. The Census exercise remains a major point of contention, with civil society organisations calling for the NRC issue to be resolved first.

COTA Urges Resolution of NRC-Census Dispute

Imphal, August 19: The Council of Teachers Association, Manipur has urged the State Government and civil society organisations demanding NRC updation to arrive at a mutual understanding over the ongoing Census issue. In a statement, COTA appealed to the government to relieve teachers assigned as Census enumerators and supervisors, citing alleged humiliation and obstacles faced by teachers during training sessions. The teachers’ body also urged the government to resolve the NRC issue before Census enumeration begins and ensure a conducive working environment for teachers. COTA’s appeal comes amid disruptions to Census training programmes and protests across Manipur.

Ibobi Questions Government’s Handling of Census Issue

Imphal, August 19: Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee President Okram Ibobi has questioned the State Government’s failure to press the Centre to defer the Census before the Gazette notification was issued. Speaking at Congress Bhawan in Imphal today, Ibobi welcomed the decision of some BJP MLAs to travel to New Delhi to press Central leaders for NRC updation before the Census, but said the move came late. He said Congress supports the demand raised by civil society organisations and the public. Ibobi also highlighted the continued displacement of thousands of people living in relief camps and said house listing and population enumeration would be inappropriate under the present circumstances.

Mekola Protesters Demand NRC Before Census

Imphal, August 19: Meira Paibi members and internally displaced persons at Mekola Gulap Higher Secondary School blocked Mekola Bazar today in support of the JFD strike. Protesters urged elected representatives to protect indigenous interests and oppose what they described as divisive policies. MPCC Spokesperson Dr. S. Manaoton also backed the “No Census without NRC” demand, warning that conducting the Census without NRC could marginalise indigenous communities. He urged the Centre and State Government to initiate NRC to identify illegal immigrants. An IDP from Churachandpur said conducting the Census without updating the NRC would be unacceptable to displaced people living in relief camps.

Sanjoy Aahanthem Demands Cabinet Stand on Census

Bishnupur, August 19: Social activist and intending candidate for Kumbi Assembly Constituency Sanjoy Aahanthem has criticised the State Government’s decision to send MLAs to New Delhi to discuss the NRC-Census issue. Describing the move as a sign of indecision, Sanjoy demanded that the Census be deferred until NRC updation, using 1951 as the base year. He warned that conducting the Census first could affect the political, cultural, economic and identity rights of indigenous people. Sanjoy urged the BJP-led State Government to immediately convene a Cabinet meeting and adopt a firm position on deferring the Census until the NRC issue is resolved.

Jiribam Transporters Demand SP’s Transfer

Jiribam, August 19: The All Jiribam Road Transport Drivers Union staged a protest demanding the transfer of Jiribam SP Prakhar Pandey, alleging harassment and disruption of transport operations. Speaking at a protest meet outside Congress Bhawan in Babupara, Union Secretary Kh. Gopeshor alleged that drivers arriving from other states face unnecessary difficulties and that vehicles are frequently stopped and challaned without valid reasons. He said several goods-laden trucks bound for Imphal have remained stranded in Jiribam for more than a month, causing hardship to drivers. The union demanded the SP’s immediate transfer and an end to alleged harassment of drivers.

NH-37 Drivers Launch Steering-Down Protest

Jiribam, August 19: Drivers operating along National Highway-37 have launched a steering-down protest demanding removal of Jiribam SP Prakhar Pandey and an end to alleged harassment and extortion. The Transporters and Drivers Council said drivers have stopped plying vehicles, including those under CRPF escort, as part of the protest. TDC President Hijam Ranjit alleged that drivers are being harassed, extorted and heavily fined at checkpoints. The council also demanded a refund of fines imposed on four goods vehicles and warned that passenger services would be suspended if the Jiribam SP is not removed immediately. The protest is supported by drivers’ unions from Silchar, Jiribam and Imphal.

Man Arrested With Suspected Heroin in Imphal East

Imphal, August 19: Imphal East Commandos arrested a 28-year-old man today for allegedly attempting to smuggle suspected heroin to Kohima, Nagaland. Police identified the arrested person as Md. Eliyas Khan, a resident of Hatta Central Masjid Road, Imphal East. Acting on reliable intelligence, security personnel intercepted him and recovered 10 soap cases containing around 130 grams of suspected Heroin No. 4. The accused was taken into custody for further investigation. Police are examining the alleged drug trafficking network and the intended destination of the seized contraband as part of continuing efforts to curb the movement of narcotic substances in the state.

Workshop on Eye Donation and Cornea Transplantation Held

Imphal, August 19: A state-level workshop on “Hospital Cornea Retrieval Program – Strengthening Eye Donation and Cornea Transplantation in Manipur” was held today at MS Conference Hall, JNIMS. The programme was organised by the Manipur Government’s National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment, National Health Mission and Directorate of Health Services. Health Services Director Dr N. Hemantakumar said 39 corneal transplants have been successfully conducted since the State Eye Bank opened on November 29, 2023. He also said more than 250 people have so far pledged to donate their corneas. The workshop focused on strengthening eye donation and transplantation services in the state.

India Lead Pool D After 6-1 Win Over South Africa

Wavre: India are leading Pool D with four points at the 16th Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup after registering a convincing 6-1 victory over South Africa in their previous league encounter. The tournament is being held at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium, and Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands. India, England, China and South Africa are competing in Pool D, with 16 teams divided into four groups. The Indian squad includes Manipuri players and Olympians Pukhrambam Sushila and Bichu Kharibam. India will face England in its final league match tomorrow at 6 pm, with a strong finish important for their campaign.

Lanchenba Wins Silver at Junior National Aquatics

Bhubaneswar, August 19: Manipur swimmer Laitonjam Lanchenba won a silver medal in the Men’s 50-metre Butterfly at the 52nd Junior National Aquatic Championship being held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar. In the final, Krishna Yadav of Uttar Pradesh won gold with a timing of 25.48 seconds, while Lanchenba finished second in 25.73 seconds. Ronel Netnam of Tamil Nadu claimed bronze with 25.76 seconds. The championship, organised under the aegis of the Swimming Federation of India, began yesterday and will continue until August 23. Lanchenba is a Class 11 Arts student of Nongpok Maheikol, Brahmapur Aribam Leikai.