Shutdowns Intensify Tensions in Manipur after Church Leaders' Killing

In Manipur, normalcy was severely disrupted in at least three districts as shutdowns were imposed by the Kuki Zo and Naga communities. The shutdowns were in response to the killing of three church leaders and a civilian, escalating tensions in the region.

In districts like Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Chandel, government offices saw low attendance and schools remained closed. A 48-hour shutdown was called by Kuki Inpi Manipur, the leading body of Kuki tribes, to protest the killings near Kotlen in Kangpokpi.

Protesters forced the closure of markets, business activities, and traffic on National Highway 2, which connects Imphal to Dimapur. In Chandel, a shutdown was imposed against the killing of a Naga individual in Noney, bringing business activities to a stop. Ethnic violence since May 2023 has led to significant casualties and displacement in Manipur.