Items filtered by date: Tuesday, 01 September 2026

JFD General Strike Brings Manipur to Standstill

Imphal, September 1: The 24-hour statewide general strike called by the Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation (JFD) demanding a clear government order that the Census should not be conducted before NRC updation has severely affected normal life across Manipur. Major markets, including Khwairamband Ima Market, Paona Bazaar and Thangal Bazaar, remained closed. Passenger services were also suspended on several major routes, while schools and colleges remained shut. Government offices recorded low attendance. Protesters blocked roads at several locations, while emergency and essential services continued to function. Women vendors of Khwairamband Keithel also continued their protest, demanding NRC updation before the Census.

Imphal-Ukhrul Road Hit by JFD Strike

Imphal, September 1: The JFD’s 24-hour general strike disrupted normal life along the Imphal-Ukhrul road, with passenger vehicles remaining off the road. Markets including Khurai Lamlong Keithel, Napet Palli, Lamlai and Sawombung Khunjao remained closed, while pharmacies were allowed to operate. At Sawombung Gate, Chingarel Tejpur and several locations around Khurai Lamlong, protesters blocked roads using bamboo and other materials. Essential services, medical facilities, religious activities and movement of press and media personnel were exempted from the strike. Security personnel remained deployed in the affected areas to maintain order and prevent any untoward incident during the agitation.

Kakching Paralysed by JFD General Strike

Kakching, September 1: The 24-hour general strike called by the Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation severely disrupted normal life across Kakching district. Markets, schools, colleges, banks, government offices and oil pumps remained closed as business activities came to a standstill. Passenger vehicles were largely absent from the roads, with only a few vehicles seen moving in different areas. The agitation received widespread public support across the district. The strike is part of JFD’s ongoing campaign demanding NRC updation before the Census in Manipur. With most establishments closed, daily activities were significantly affected throughout Kakching, while people largely remained indoors.

Jiribam Students Join Census Boycott Strike

Jiribam, September 1: The JFD general strike received widespread support in Jiribam district, disrupting normal life from the early hours. Members of student organisations, including AMSU, MSF, DESAM and SUK, blocked the road near Jiribam Gate, the main entry point to Jiribam town, in support of the agitation. Markets remained closed and schools and colleges across the district were shut down. Movement of people and vehicles was largely affected, except for emergency and essential services. The student groups’ participation added to the ongoing mobilisation against conducting the Census before NRC updation, with normal commercial and educational activities remaining suspended across the district.

Phayeng Auto Drivers Back NRC Demand

Imphal, September 1: The Phayeng Auto Driver Association held a protest meeting at Phayeng Bazar in support of the ongoing agitation led by the Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation. The association backed the demand for NRC updation in Manipur before the Census is conducted. Protesters raised concerns over alleged illegal immigration and demographic imbalance in the state, expressing apprehension that such developments could affect the rights and interests of indigenous communities. The protest meeting forms part of the broader mobilisation against the Census without prior NRC updation, with various local organisations and groups extending support to the campaign across different parts of Manipur.

Imphal-Kongba Road Disrupted by Strike

Imphal, September 1: The JFD’s 24-hour general strike disrupted normal traffic along the Imphal-Kongba Road, with only vehicles providing essential services allowed to move. Wangkhei Andro Parking and Pureiromba Bazar wore a deserted look as business establishments remained closed, except pharmacies. Strike supporters blocked roads at Andro Parking and checked vehicles as part of the agitation. State and Central security forces maintained strict security arrangements in the area to prevent any untoward incident. The strike is part of JFD’s campaign demanding NRC updation before the Census and has affected transport and commercial activities in several parts of the state.

Women’s Group Blocks RIMS Road in Support of JFD

Imphal, September 1: Khwai Lalambung Makhong Apunba Nupi Lup extended support to the JFD’s 24-hour general strike demanding NRC updation before the Census. Members of the women’s organisation staged a protest meeting while holding placards highlighting their demands. The protesters also blocked the RIMS road, disrupting traffic movement in the area. Emergency and medical services were exempted from the road blockade. The action came amid a statewide strike called by JFD against conducting the Census without first updating the National Register of Citizens. The women protesters said their participation was intended to support the broader public demand for NRC updation before the Census exercise.

RSS Backs NRC Before Census

Imphal, September 1: Rashtrahit Sarvopari Sangathan (RSS) has extended support to the ongoing demand for NRC updation in Manipur before the Census. The organisation also welcomed the decision of the Centre and State Government to defer the Census exercise in the state. RSS expressed optimism that the Central and State authorities would work towards fulfilling the demand for NRC updation. The organisation’s statement comes amid a statewide agitation led by the Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation, which has called for public support to oppose the Census unless NRC updation is carried out first. The issue has become a major point of public mobilisation across Manipur.

Ima Keithel Vendors Seek Official Order on Census

Imphal, September 1: Vendors of Khwairamband Ima Keithel have said people should be satisfied with the High Court’s withholding of the Census exercise until the government issues an official order clarifying that the Census will be conducted only after NRC updation. The vendors reiterated their demand amid the ongoing public agitation against conducting the Census without updating the National Register of Citizens. The next hearing of the Public Interest Litigation concerning the issue is scheduled for October 12. The vendors maintained that an official government position is necessary to remove confusion and address concerns surrounding the Census and NRC process in Manipur.

JFD Convenor Allegedly Targeted by Police Commandos

Imphal, September 1: JFD Convenor Jitendra Ningomba was allegedly targeted for detention by a team of Manipur Police Commandos at around 10 pm yesterday near Palace Compound. According to information received by Impact News, Jitendra was travelling with another JFD member when a Commando Rakshak bulletproof vehicle allegedly attempted to intercept their vehicle. The attempt reportedly ended after Meira Paibi members arrived at the spot. The Commandos reportedly told those present that the vehicle had been intercepted because it was suspected to be without a number plate. Jitendra and the other JFD member were subsequently allowed to leave the area.

CM Says BJP Leadership Understands Manipur

Imphal, September 1: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand said the BJP and its Central leadership understand Manipur’s history, aspirations and concerns and remain committed to protecting the state’s integrity. Addressing BJP workers at the party office in Imphal after returning from Delhi, Khemchand said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other leaders are aware of the situation in Manipur. He said the decision to defer the Census had already been taken before his August 25 visit to Delhi, but a formal meeting was required before the decision was made public. He also highlighted efforts towards peace and reconciliation.

Sarda Says BJP Conveying People’s Concerns to Centre

Imphal, September 1: BJP Manipur Pradesh President and Rajya Sabha MP A. Sarda said the BJP-led government in Manipur has been conveying the aspirations and sentiments of the people to the Central leadership. She said the Chief Minister’s engagements with Central leaders are aimed at restoring peace and addressing public concerns, although the situation in the state has not yet fully stabilised. Sarda said there has been some improvement in the situation due to the sincere efforts of the Chief Minister and urged people to acknowledge the progress. Her remarks came after Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand returned from Delhi following meetings with Central leaders.

14 CSOs Discuss NRC and Village Volunteers With Athawale

Imphal, September 1: Representatives of 14 Civil Society Organisations of Kangleipak and leaders of different communities met Union Minister and RPI-Athawale leader Ramdas Athawale to discuss the situation in Manipur. According to 14 CSO Kangleipak Convenor Nahakpam Shanta, the delegation raised the demand for NRC updation with 1951 as the base year and discussed issues concerning Village Volunteers. The CSOs also urged the Union Minister to consider political, economic and security concerns while addressing the NRC issue. They further raised demands for general amnesty or a separate battalion for those who took up arms during the crisis. Athawale reportedly assured them that their concerns would be conveyed to the Union Home Minister.

AMMOCOC Raises Demographic Imbalance With Athawale

Imphal, September 1: AMMOCOC President SM Jalal said the organisation raised concerns over demographic imbalance in Manipur during its meeting with Union Minister Ramdas Athawale. Jalal alleged that illegal immigrants have been settling among indigenous communities and warned that conducting the Census without first updating the NRC and identifying alleged illegal immigrants could adversely affect genuine citizens. He said the delegation urged the Union Minister to initiate appropriate measures to address the issue. The discussion took place amid continued public demands for NRC updation before the Census. Jalal also noted that the Census process has been kept on hold by the Union Government and the Court.

Fresh Clashes Reported Along Imphal-Tamei Road

Kangpokpi, September 1: Tension between Naga and Kuki communities has escalated in Kangpokpi district, with fresh clashes reported along the Imphal-Tamei Road. According to villagers, four Naga villages—Tapon Khunou, Tapon Khullen, Makui Pipuram and Makui Khunjao—were allegedly attacked by Kuki armed groups operating under SoO. Several houses were reportedly set ablaze. Naga Village Guards allegedly retaliated, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Villagers claimed that at least 30 houses, vehicles and other properties were burnt in Tapon Khullen and Tapon Khunou, while the pastor of Tapon Khullen reportedly sustained a bullet injury. Security forces later conducted combing operations in surrounding areas.

Solidarity Prayer Held for Six Liangmai Men

Imphal, September 1: A solidarity prayer meeting was held at the JNIMS morgue to mark 111 days since the killing of six Liangmai Naga men allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district. The meeting was organised as part of a daily roster-based prayer programme seeking justice for the six deceased. Lungsibuiliu Daimai, President of Liangmai Pui Naga Ruangdi Imphal Unit, said the families were still awaiting justice and stressed the need for a dignified burial of the deceased. He urged authorities to identify and book those responsible and ensure justice for the victims without further delay.

Kuki-Zo MLAs Set to Return to Assembly

Imphal, September 1: Kuki-Zo MLAs are expected to attend the eighth session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly in person tomorrow, marking their return to the Assembly after the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023. According to reliable sources, some Kuki-Zo MLAs arrived in Imphal yesterday under heavy security arrangements. The three-day Assembly session will have three sittings, although it remains unclear how many of the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs will attend. Their proposed participation is being viewed as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur under the leadership of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand.

Kairang Youth Club Opposes Appointment to Waqf Board

Imphal, September 1: Kairang Teramakhong Youth Development Club held a public meeting concerning the appointment of non-Muslim members to the eighth Waqf Board, Manipur. The meeting adopted several resolutions, including rejection of the United Meitei Pangal Council’s claim to represent the entire Meitei-Pangal community. The youth organisation also announced a boycott of the organisation in areas under the jurisdiction of Kairang Teramakhong Youth Development Club. The meeting comes amid discussions and differing views within sections of the Meitei-Pangal community over representation and the composition of the Waqf Board. The organisation said its resolutions reflected the position adopted during the public meeting.

Thongju Youth Programme Highlights Social Media Influence

Imphal, September 1: Intending candidate for Thongju Constituency Th. Oxford highlighted youth empowerment and the influence of social media on young people during a programme at his residence in Khongman Irom Leikai. More than 500 youths from the Youth Congress Wing representing Booths 1 to 45 of the constituency reportedly attended the programme. Oxford spoke about the growing influence of social media among young people and stressed the importance of proper leadership and guidance to channel the younger generation in a constructive direction. The programme focused on youth participation, leadership and the need to guide young people in responding responsibly to changing social and political environments.

Yellow Warning Issued for Heavy Rain in Three Districts

Imphal, September 1: The India Meteorological Department’s Imphal Centre has forecast continued rainfall across Manipur in the coming days, with heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms likely in parts of Ukhrul, Kamjong and Chandel districts. A yellow warning has been issued for the affected areas. Rainfall is also expected tonight in Ukhrul, Kamjong, Tengnoupal, Chandel and Pherzawl, while isolated showers are likely in several other districts. Similar rainfall activity has been forecast across the state tomorrow. Meanwhile, the ICAR Agrometeorological Unit at Lamphelpat recorded 11.2 millimetres of rainfall during the past 24 hours.

India Beat Syria 1-0 in AFC U-20 Qualifier

Imphal, September 1: India opened its AFC U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign with a 1-0 victory over Syria in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. After a goalless first half, Manipur’s Shami Singamayum scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute to secure all three points for India. In the other Group B fixture, hosts Uzbekistan defeated Bangladesh 2-0. Bangladesh will face Syria in their third group match on September 3 at 4 pm, while India will take on Uzbekistan at 7 pm. India’s victory gives the team a positive start to its campaign as it looks to progress from the Group B qualifiers.

Manipur Defeat Assam in Dr B.C. Roy Championship Opener

Imphal, September 1: Defending champions Manipur began their campaign in the 55th Dr. B.C. Roy Junior Boys National Football Championship with a 2-1 victory over Assam in Bengaluru. Muskan opened the scoring for Manipur in the 56th minute before Assam’s Edward Hmar equalised in the 71st minute. Ejajur Rahman then scored in the 87th minute to secure victory for the defending champions. The Tier-1 championship, organised by the All India Football Federation, features 16 teams divided into four groups. Manipur will face Kerala in its second league match tomorrow at 8:30 am before taking on Telangana on September 4 at the same time.

Nine-Year-Old Aavya Wins Four Medals in Thailand

Imphal, September 1: Nine-year-old Manipur swimmer Aavya Khomdram finished Third Runner-Up at the Asian Open Schools Invitational Swimming Championships 2026 in Thailand. Competing at the Assumption University Aquatic Centre, Suvarnabhumi Campus, from August 29 to 30, Aavya won two gold, one silver and one bronze medal, accumulating 143 points. The Class 4 student of Sanghamitra School, Hyderabad, was among 160 swimmers from 16 Asian countries who competed in the championship. Aavya’s performance added another notable achievement to Manipur’s growing record in swimming. She is the daughter of Dr Amarjit Khomdram and Bonny Khomdram of Haobam Marak Irom Leikai.

IPS Staff Congratulate Ashem Kennedy on Shooting Bronze

Imphal, September 1: Teaching and non-teaching staff of IPS, Canchipur have congratulated Founder-Principal Ashem Kennedy on winning a bronze medal in the 25-metre Centre Fire Pistol, Master Category, at the 13th North East Zone Shooting Championship 2026 in Guwahati. The championship was held from August 25 to 30 under the National Rifle Association of India and Manipur Rifle Association. Kennedy’s medal added to Manipur’s representation and achievements at the regional shooting championship. The IPS staff conveyed their appreciation for his performance and achievement in the competition, which brought together shooters from across the North East.

Gift Raikhan Memorial Football Cup From September 13

Imphal, September 1: The first Gift Raikhan Memorial Football Cup will kick off on September 13 at the Artificial Turf, Lamlong Thongkhong, under the aegis of the All Manipur Football Association. Eight teams will participate in the tournament: TRAU FC Kwakeithel, FC Raengdai Noney, RAU Lairikyengbam Leikai, NMFA Salam, Asufii FA Mao, NEROCA FC Sangakpham, Sainik School FC Imphal and Tangkhul Football Players Association Ukhrul. The entry fee has been fixed at Rs 5,000, with entry forms to be submitted by September 4. A managers’ meeting will be held on September 5 at 9 am at the AMFA office, Lamlong Thongkhong.