A 24-hour shutdown protesting against an upcoming tourism festival partially disrupted normal life across several districts in Manipur's Imphal Valley on Wednesday, creating significant impact on daily activities and business operations.
Bandh Brings Life to Standstill
Multiple markets, business establishments, and educational institutions remained closed throughout the day as the bandh took effect. Officials reported minimal vehicle movement on roads across Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts, indicating widespread public response to the shutdown call.
Government offices recorded notably low attendance, further demonstrating the bandh's effectiveness. The protest, organized by the proscribed outfit Kangleipak Communist Party (MC Progressive), began at midnight on Wednesday and continued for 24 hours.
Widespread Boycott and Government Response
The bandh was called specifically to protest the organization of the Sangai tourism festival while the state continues to grapple with unresolved ethnic conflict. Internally displaced people (IDPs) and several civil society organizations joined the boycott, arguing that the timing is inappropriate when many residents are still suffering from the effects of ethnic violence.
However, state authorities defended the festival's importance for economic recovery. Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel emphasized that while relief and rehabilitation of IDPs remains the government's top priority, the Sangai festival is crucial for economic acceleration and providing market opportunities for local artisans, entrepreneurs, craftsmen, and farmers.
Security Measures and Festival Context
Officials confirmed that no untoward incidents were reported during the bandh, though security was intensified across Imphal, particularly around the festival venue at Hapta Kangjeibung. The enhanced security measures were implemented in response to the general strike and boycott calls.
The Sangai festival, scheduled to begin on November 21, marks a significant return after a two-year gap. The event had been suspended since 2023 following the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state. An official noted the irony that while other festivals like the Shirui festival in Ukhrul saw participation from thousands of Imphal valley residents without boycott, the economically important Sangai festival faced opposition.
The government continues preparations for the festival, viewing it as essential for boosting trade, investment, and economic recovery in the conflict-affected state, despite the ongoing protests and concerns about timing.
