Manipur protests escalate as ethnic tensions persist, shutdowns called

Manipur remained gripped by widespread demonstrations on the third day of sustained protests, with sit-ins and mass work stoppages intensifying across the state. The shutdowns were called following the deaths of three Meitei community members, which have further inflamed tensions between ethnic groups in the region.

A committee formed in response to the killings issued calls for a complete cessation of commercial and official activities, urging residents to participate in the protest action. The shutdown saw significant participation, with markets remaining closed and transportation services severely disrupted across affected areas.

The demonstrations underscore the fragile security situation in Manipur, where long-standing ethnic divisions have frequently erupted into violence. State authorities have increased security deployments in response to the unrest, though tensions remain high across multiple communities.

Local civil society groups have appealed for calm while demanding accountability for the deaths. Officials have indicated they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the killings and working to prevent further escalation of violence.