Appeal for Peace and Stability: Manipur Home Minister Urges Withdrawal of Shutdown

Aseem Bhakta SIngh, KalimNews, Imphal, 19 April 2026 : In a strong appeal for peace and normalcy, Govindas Konthoujam, the Home Minister of Manipur, has called upon civil society organisations and the public to reconsider the proposed five-day statewide shutdown, warning of its serious impact on daily life and public welfare.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Imphal, the Minister expressed concern over the growing disruptions caused by prolonged protests and shutdowns. He highlighted how such actions disproportionately affect daily wage earners, farmers, and students, whose livelihoods and futures are placed at risk. With educational institutions already facing closures, academic activities across the state have been significantly hindered.

Reassuring the public, Konthoujam stated that the government remains attentive and responsive to the concerns raised by citizens. He explained that most of the demands submitted by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in relation to the Tronglaobi incident have already been acknowledged and accepted, reflecting the administration’s willingness to act with sincerity and responsibility.

Addressing the tragic loss of two children in the Tronglaobi incident, the Minister shared that the government has extended support to the bereaved family. The children’s father, currently serving in the Border Security Force, has been offered a suitable government position equivalent to his current role, while the children’s mother, a trained nurse, has also been offered employment. The family, however, has requested time to consider these proposals. In this context, the announcement of a statewide shutdown was described by the Minister as deeply regrettable.

Turning to the recent unrest at T.M. Kasom village, Konthoujam strongly condemned the violence, calling it deeply distressing. He noted that the Tangkhul Naga Long had submitted a memorandum outlining several demands. These concerns were discussed in a joint meeting involving TNL leaders and Naga MLAs, under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho. The government has since assured compensation to the families of those who lost their lives, in accordance with established norms, and has committed to providing medical assistance to the injured.

On the security front, the Minister provided an update on the deployment of forces. Out of 272 companies of Central Armed Police Forces, 88 have been temporarily withdrawn for election duties in West Bengal, with 15 more expected to follow. Despite this, he assured that, after intervention by the Chief Minister, 184 companies will remain stationed in Manipur to uphold law and order.

In a further step to strengthen public safety, the government is introducing advanced security measures, including mine-protected and bullet-proof vehicles, aimed at enhancing civilian protection in sensitive areas.

Concluding his address with a call for unity and cooperation, Govindas Konthoujam urged all communities to work alongside the government and resolve differences through dialogue. He reaffirmed the administration’s firm commitment to restoring peace, stability, and normalcy across Manipur.

The press conference was also attended by Cabinet Minister for Arts and Culture Kh. Loken, along with other Members of the Legislative Assembly.