IMPHAL, Oct 26: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday visited the families of three people killed in the October 19 attack at Khongban Tangkhul in Imphal East district, a day after a joint action committee announced a statewide shutdown over the delay in meeting the bereaved families.
Singh visited the residences of Arubam Ronil, Lairenlakpam Inaobi and Kshetrimayum Sushil at Nongshum and met members of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in connection with the incident. He assured the committee that its demands would be considered.
In a social media post, the chief minister expressed condolences to the families and said the government stood with them and would extend all possible assistance.
The visit followed mounting criticism from the JAC, which had accused the chief minister and BJP legislators of failing to meet the victims’ families after the attack. The committee had given the leaders until 5 pm on Sunday to visit the bereaved households and offer condolences.
After the deadline passed without the requested meetings, the JAC announced a statewide shutdown from Monday, saying it would continue until its demands were addressed.
The October 19 attack, allegedly carried out by armed Kuki individuals, left three people dead and three others injured. The JAC has accused the government of failing to provide adequate security and demanded that the authorities take responsibility for the prevailing situation.
The committee, however, clarified that the shutdown would not disrupt essential services or religious and cultural programmes, including the upcoming Mera Hou Chongba festival.
