Items filtered by date: Tuesday, 20 October 2026

Statewide Strike Disrupts Normal Life Across Manipur

Imphal, October 20: Normal life across Manipur was disrupted on Tuesday as a 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Native Peoples Committee Manipur continued over the killing of three Meitei civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. A separate 24-hour strike was also enforced by EKAL. Major commercial centres, including Khwairamband Ima Market, Thangal Market and Paona Bazar, remained closed, along with markets in several other localities. Educational institutions were shut, while public transport services were largely suspended. Emergency services, essential activities and religious observances were exempted from the strike.

Tear Gas Fired at Strike Supporters Near Sajiwa Jail

Imphal, October 20: A CRPF CoBRA team reportedly fired tear gas shells at supporters of the statewide strike near Sajiwa Jail Lamkhai on Tuesday. Internally displaced persons taking shelter at Kangla Sangomshang, Kangla Siphai and Sajiwa had gathered to protest the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. Protesters said their demonstration was peaceful and did not obstruct the security personnel’s movement. No injuries were reported. The protesters demanded that security forces refrain from using such measures against demonstrators.

Strike Supporters Block NH-137A at Multiple Locations

Imphal, October 20: The statewide strike affected traffic along National Highway 137A, also known as the Mayai Lambi route, with supporters blocking roads at several locations. Demonstrations and road blockades were reported at Hiyanglam-Wabagai Lamkhai Market, Hiyanglam Awang Leikai, Sekmaijin Bridge, Mayang Imphal, Wangoi, Samurou and Heirangoithong. Vehicles carrying people requiring emergency medical assistance and those engaged in religious activities were exempted. One protester criticised the government’s claims that peace had returned to Manipur, arguing that civilian killings continued despite such assurances.

Three Kuki National Front (Nehlun)Cadres Arrested

Kangpokpi, October 20: Security forces arrested three alleged cadres of the Kuki National Front (Nehlun) in connection with the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. A joint team of Imphal East commandos and CRPF personnel conducted an operation early Tuesday. The arrested men were identified as Lunpao Kipgen, Henminthang Misao and Sheikholal Haokip. Security forces reportedly recovered an AK-47, M-series rifles, a grenade launcher, a Pompi, improvised explosive devices, explosives and ammunition. Further operations are continuing. Authorities are also reportedly investigating the absence of some cadres from their designated camp at Saikul.

Kuki Villager Killed in Shooting at P. Molding

Kangpokpi, October 20: A 44-year-old Kuki villager, Paolenmung Thangeo, was reportedly shot dead by armed miscreants at P. Molding village under Leimakhong Police Station at around 8 am on Tuesday. According to Impact News sources, Thangeo and another villager were collecting edible bamboo shoots in a forest area when armed men, suspected to belong to a Naga group, attacked them. Thangeo died at the spot, while his companion escaped unharmed. Leimakhong Police recovered the body. The killing comes a day after three Meitei civilians were killed in an attack at Khongbal Tangkhul.

Molding Village Bodies Condemn Paolenmung Thangeo’s Killing

Kangpokpi, October 20: The P. Molding Village Authority and P. Molding Youth Club have condemned the killing of villager Paolenmung Thangeo and called for an impartial investigation. In separate statements, the organisations urged the state and central governments to ensure justice and take urgent measures to protect civilian lives. They alleged that Thangeo was shot dead by armed militants belonging to the NSCN-IM and ZUF(K). The village bodies stressed the need for accountability and stronger security measures to prevent further attacks on civilians.

CoTU Calls 24-Hour Shutdown in Kangpokpi District

Kangpokpi, October 20: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has called a 24-hour total shutdown across Kangpokpi district, beginning at midnight on Tuesday and ending at midnight on October 21. CoTU said the shutdown expresses the anguish of Kuki-Zo communities and demands justice, accountability and protection. The organisation condemned the arrests of Kuki-Zo individuals in connection with the killing of three Meitei civilians, alleging that a fair investigation was necessary. It also condemned the killing of Paolenmung Thangeo in the Leimakhong area, which it attributed to NSCN-IM. Emergency medical and other life-saving services are exempted.

Uyumpok Committee Questions Security Arrangements After Khongbal Tangkhul Attack

Imphal, October 20: The Uyumpok Mamang Leikai Development Committee said the bodies of three civilians killed at Khongbal Tangkhul were brought to the Chief Minister’s residence to demand an end to violence, not to challenge the government. Joint Secretary Laishram Ningthem questioned why the villagers were allowed to collect firewood in the area without adequate protection despite the presence of an Assam Rifles camp nearby. Nupi Lamjing Lup Secretary S. Sundari said public confidence in the state and central governments and security forces had eroded. The organisations demanded stronger security deployment and action against armed groups. Effigies of political leaders were also burned following the press meet.

Deputy CM Losii Dikho Condemns Khongbal Tangkhul Killings

Imphal, October 20: Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho has expressed dismay over the killing of three villagers from Nongshum and injuries to three others in the attack at Khongbal Tangkhul. In a press release, Dikho said the victims were collecting firewood when they were attacked by miscreants. He called on law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is delivered at the earliest. His statement comes amid widespread condemnation of the killings and demands for accountability and stronger measures to protect civilians.

FOCS Demands Arrest of Those Behind Khongbal Tangkhul Killings

Imphal West, October 20: The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) and 13 like-minded bodies have condemned the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul and demanded the prompt arrest and punishment of those responsible. FOCS secretary N. Bhumeshwor alleged that the attack might have been avoided if the base camp of the Pambei-led UNLF-MPA had not been shifted from Nongshum. He called on the state and central governments to accept responsibility and provide appropriate locations for the group’s base camps. A FOCS team also extended financial assistance to injured victims receiving treatment at Raj Medicity.

MMWO Condemns Civilian Killings, Questions Security Response

Imphal, October 20: The Manipur Muslim Welfare Organisation (MMWO) has condemned the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul, expressing concern over what it described as the authorities’ failure to take lawful action against those responsible for violence. MMWO Vice President Chesam Achouba questioned the role of central security forces deployed in the state and called for accountability. The organisation’s statement adds to growing public condemnation of the killings and demands for effective measures to prevent further attacks on civilians.

Protest Held at Wangoo Against Khongbal Tangkhul Killings

Bishnupur, October 20: A protest demonstration was held at Wangoo Parking in Kumbi Assembly Constituency on Tuesday, condemning the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. A large number of people from Chandonpokpi, Nungu, Pombikhok, Thoubaltabi, Chairel Leingangtabi, Khoijumantabi, Laingoubi and other nearby localities participated. Representatives and residents from several gram panchayats in the area also joined the demonstration. The protest reflected mounting anger over the killings and calls for justice and stronger civilian protection.

Jiri United Committee Demands Security Measures in Jiribam

Jiribam, October 20: The Jiri United Committee has condemned the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul and demanded stringent action against those responsible. Committee Co-convenor Senjam Sainik urged the government to strengthen security arrangements in Jiribam district to prevent possible untoward incidents. The committee’s statement comes amid growing concern over civilian safety following the latest killings and a series of condemnations from organisations across Manipur.

Civil Society Organisations Condemn Khongbal Tangkhul Attack

Imphal, October 20: Several organisations, including the Manipur Democratic People’s Front (MDPF), Manipur Youth League (MAYOL), AMUCO, PLMPAM, AMAWOVA, COHR Manipur and MSF, have condemned the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. MDPF described the incident as evidence of governance failures, while MAYOL alleged that armed groups were operating freely and demanded a crackdown. The organisations called for accountability and stronger measures to protect civilians. Their statements reflect mounting anger over the killings and the injuries sustained by three other people in the attack.

Congress Accuses Government of Failing to Protect Civilians

Imphal, October 20: The India Bloc has accused the Manipur government of failing to protect civilians amid continued violence. The remarks followed a meeting between Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand and India Bloc representatives at the CM’s Secretariat to discuss the law-and-order situation. Speaking at Congress Bhawan, MPCC president Ibobi criticised the government over civilian killings, economic decline, rising prices and unemployment. He said the crisis that began on May 3, 2023, remained unresolved and criticised the absence of an all-party meeting. He also said the situation should not be used as a reason to defer the 2027 Assembly elections.

Ashang Kasar Calls for Reform at Phungyar Constituency Programme

Kamjong, October 20: Wungnaoshang (Ashang) Kasar, an intending candidate for the 13th Manipur Legislative Assembly election in 2027 from Phungyar Assembly Constituency, held a declaration-cum-blessing programme at Chadong village. Addressing the gathering, Kasar called for reforms to tackle corruption, discrimination and economic exploitation. He said there was no inherent reason for enmity between indigenous Meitei and Naga communities, arguing that political interests had deepened divisions. He also spoke about refugees and illegal immigration, and said he had decided to contest the election to bring change to society.

Dr. Maimom Shantikumar Criticises Amit Shah Over Manipur Violence

Imphal, October 20: Assam Congress leader Dr. Maimom Shantikumar has criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah for not addressing continuing violence in Manipur. In a video statement, Shantikumar questioned whether Shah would visit the state amid speculation about a possible visit. He also accused BJP legislators of taking the crisis lightly and failing to show adequate concern for the people. His remarks come amid renewed violence and growing demands for stronger intervention to restore peace and protect civilians.

AMMOCOC Alleges Security Lapses After Civilian Killings

Imphal, October 20: All Manipur Muslim Organisations Coordinating Committee (AMMOCOC) president S. M. Jalal has alleged serious security lapses following the killing of three civilians at Khongbal Tangkhul. Speaking to the media at Hatta, Imphal, Jalal questioned the effectiveness of police commandos and the large number of central security personnel deployed in the state. He expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded stringent action against those responsible for the killings. Jalal also said AMMOCOC would support public movements seeking justice over the incident.

Manipur U-19 Women’s Team Welcomed After Cricket Championship Victory

Imphal, October 20: Manipur’s Under-19 women’s cricket team and support staff received a warm welcome following their Plate Group championship victory in the BCCI-organised T20 tournament. The team arrived at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal on Monday. Manipur defeated Sikkim by 120 runs in the final, played at cricket grounds in Guwahati. S. Kebriya was named Player of the Match, while Taniya Ningthoujam received the Player of the Series award. Manipur Cricket Association officials, families and other members attended the reception ceremony.

TLT Sports Academy Wins Youth Elite I League Qualifier

Imphal, October 20: TLT Sports Academy Tharoijam won the second qualifying round of the Youth Elite I League, organised under the aegis of the All India Football Federation. In the match held on Monday at Alegjar Karara Mini Stadium in Assam, TLT Sports Academy defeated Sadar Hills Football Academy 3–2. The victory secured the Tharoijam side’s success in the qualifying round.