IMPHAL, Oct 23: A 48-hour general strike called by a Joint Action Committee (JAC) over the killing of Laishram Rakesh began across Manipur at 5 am on Friday, with protests and road blockades reported in Khangabok area of Thoubal district.
The JAC called the strike to protest what it described as the government’s failure to arrest those responsible for Rakesh’s death. He sustained a bullet injury in a shooting incident at Palli Bazar, between Khangabok and Sangaiyumpham under Thoubal Police Station, on the night of October 18.
Residents gathered along National Highway 102, also known as the Imphal–Moreh Road, from early morning and blocked traffic. Protesters also burned tyres at several locations along the highway.
The organisers said movement would remain restricted during the strike, with exemptions for medical services, press and media personnel, and religious activities. Thoubal District Police remained on alert to prevent any untoward incidents.
On Thursday, the JAC Against the Brutal Killing of Laishram Rakesh submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, demanding the arrest of those responsible.
JAC member Kh. Santa said four days had passed since Rakesh’s death, but no arrests had been made despite daily sit-in protests seeking action. He also criticised what he described as a lack of support or a statement from the Sangaiyumpham side regarding efforts to bring the alleged perpetrators to justice.
The strike is scheduled to continue for 48 hours, with the JAC maintaining its demand for the arrest of those involved in the killing.
