48-Hour Statewide General Strike Disrupts Normal Life

Imphal, August 18: The 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) is currently underway, demanding updation of the National Register of Citizens before the Census in Manipur. Normal life remained affected across the state, with shops, markets, educational institutions and private establishments staying closed. Vehicular movement was also largely disrupted, while government offices recorded low attendance. Major commercial centres including Khwairamband Ima Keithel, Paona Bazar and Thangal Bazar remained shut. Road blockades were reported in Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur, while security forces were deployed at key locations. Essential services were exempted.

Jiribam Hit by JFD General Strike

Jiribam, August 18: The JFD-sponsored 48-hour general strike affected normal life in Jiribam district. Strike supporters took to the streets and blocked roads and district highways, disrupting vehicular movement. Jiri Market presented a deserted appearance as shops remained closed and commercial activities came to a halt. Schools and colleges also remained closed during the strike. Security forces were deployed at various locations as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident. The strike has been called to demand updation of the National Register of Citizens before the Census and has received support from organisations representing communities in both the hills and valley.

Thoubal Witnesses Road Blockades During Strike

Thoubal, August 18: The 48-hour JFD general strike has also affected normal life across Thoubal district. Supporters blocked roads and inter-district highways by burning tyres and placing logs, while shops and businesses remained closed. Meira Paibi groups staged road-block demonstrations near the Thoubal DC Complex and Athokpam Market. The Meitei Community Joint Coordinating Committee, comprising 18 clubs, also blocked roads at Babu Keithel. At Khongjom Market, the Khongjom Circle Meira Paibi Forum and local clubs held a sit-in demanding NRC updation before the Census. Markets across the district wore a deserted look as commercial activities remained largely suspended.

Youth of Pangantabi Support General Strike

Kakching, August 18: Members of Youth of Pangantabi joined the ongoing 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation. YOP members came out to block the Indo-Myanmar Road in Kakching district as part of the protest demanding NRC updation before the Census. The road blockade disrupted normal movement in the area, although emergency and essential services were reportedly allowed to pass. The participation of local youth groups added to the wider mobilisation in support of the JFD’s demand. The strike has affected transportation, business activities and educational institutions across several districts of Manipur.

Protester Injured in Tear Gas Firing at Kwakeithel

Imphal, August 18: A 20-year-old protester was injured after security forces fired tear gas shells during the JFD general strike at Kwakeithel Traffic Island today. The incident occurred around 12:30 pm when protesters blocking Tiddim Road reportedly attempted to stop a convoy of 33 Assam Rifles vehicles travelling from Keishampat. Security forces fired several tear gas shells after stones and bamboo poles were allegedly thrown at the vehicles. The injured protester, Khundrakpam Arnold of Khoijuman, sustained a leg injury and was taken to Asian Hospital for treatment. Protesters also blocked the road at Khagempalli Nganapi Bridge, raising “No NRC, No Census” slogans.

6. Four Women Injured During Porompat Protest

Imphal, August 18: Women protesters demanding “No NRC, No Census” staged a demonstration outside the Imphal East Deputy Commissioner’s office gate at Porompat amid heavy rainfall. The protest formed part of the JFD-led movement against conducting the Census before updation of the National Register of Citizens. During the demonstration, police reportedly fired tear gas shells to disperse the protesters. At least four women were injured in the incident and were subsequently taken to JNIMS Hospital for treatment. The protest added to a series of demonstrations held across Manipur during the ongoing 48-hour statewide general strike.

TAKDO Extends Support to JFD Movement

Imphal, August 18: The Thangmeiband Kendra Development Organisation has extended support to the JFD-led movement demanding NRC updation before the Census. TAKDO President Khulem Nobokumar said the organisation and residents of Thangmeiband would support the ongoing agitation. General Secretary Sundari Loitongbam expressed concern over the displacement of people since May 3, 2023, and said TAKDO has opened three relief camps in the constituency. Sundari appealed to people not to participate in the Census until the NRC is updated. TAKDO’s support comes amid growing opposition from civil society groups and displaced people to the proposed Census exercise.

IDP Calls for Resettlement Before Census

Bishnupur, August 18: Internally displaced person Wangjam Premjit has opposed the plans of the State and Central governments to conduct the Census in Manipur before addressing the concerns of displaced families. Originally from Torbung, Premjit is currently staying at the Thambal Marik College Relief Camp in Oinam. He said internally displaced persons should first be resettled in their respective homes in a secure and peaceful environment. Premjit also called for updation of the NRC to identify unauthorised entrants from Myanmar. He maintained that the Census should be conducted only after the issues of displacement, security and NRC updation have been addressed.

Protests Held at Langjing and Thangapat

Imphal, August 18: Protests demanding NRC updation before the Census were held at multiple locations in Imphal West and Imphal East. Residents and protesters staged a demonstration along the Imphal-Jiri road at Langjing Achouba, raising opposition to the Census exercise without prior NRC updation. In Imphal East, members of Brahmapur Thangapat Mapal Meira Paibi Lup also organised a protest at Brahmapur Thangapat Mapal. The demonstrations formed part of the wider “No NRC, No Census” campaign being carried out by civil society organisations and local groups across Manipur during the 48-hour statewide general strike.

‘No NRC, No Census’ Protest Held in Chandel

Chandel, August 18: A protest demanding “No NRC, No Census” was held at Chakpikarong Headquarters in Chandel district. The demonstration was organised by the Anal Naga Chiefs’ Association, Chakpikarong, as part of the wider movement against conducting the Census before updation of the National Register of Citizens. Protesters voiced concerns over demographic changes and demanded that the government address the NRC issue before proceeding with the Census. The protest coincided with the second day of the 48-hour statewide general strike called by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation, which has received support from several community and civil society organisations.

MLA Rameshwar Stopped During General Strike

Kakching, August 18: Supporters of the ongoing JFD general strike stopped MLA Rameshwar at Wabagai-Lamkhai Bazar while he was travelling towards the airport. Members of the Hiyanglam-Wabagai Apunba Nupi Lup reportedly intercepted the MLA’s vehicle and asked him to come out and state his position on the JFD-led movement demanding NRC updation before the Census. After the interaction, the protesters allowed the MLA to proceed. The incident occurred amid heightened protests across Manipur during the 48-hour statewide strike, with civil society organisations and local groups calling for the government to address concerns over the Census and NRC before the exercise is conducted.

CM Supports NRC Before Census, Opposes Bandhs

Imphal, August 18: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has said the Manipur Government supports the public demand for conducting the Census only after updation of the National Register of Citizens. The Chief Minister noted that the State Assembly had earlier passed a resolution seeking NRC updation and said the government is making efforts to address public concerns. However, Khemchand appealed to protesters to adopt democratic forms of agitation other than bandhs, stating that shutdowns adversely affect the state’s economy and students’ education. Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken, BJP MLAs and senior civil and security officials attended the programme.

N Biren Raises NRC Demand With Amit Shah

Imphal, August 18: Former Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren has said he expects a positive response to the demand for NRC updation before the Census in Manipur. Speaking to the media at Imphal International Airport after returning from New Delhi, Biren said he discussed the issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during their meeting on Monday. He said he raised the State Cabinet’s February 2023 decision to initiate the NRC process in Manipur and urged the Union Home Minister to consider the public demand. Biren also stressed the need to identify and remove illegal immigrants, claiming that a report has identified around 926 unauthorised villages in the state.

Government Team to Press Centre on NRC Updation

Imphal, August 18: Manipur Government Spokesperson Dr Sapam Ranjan has said the state will urge the Centre to expedite NRC updation before the Census. Speaking at a press conference at DIPR Office Imphal today, Dr Ranjan said a team of elected representatives will leave Imphal tomorrow to take up the issue with the Central Government. He said the State Assembly had passed resolutions in 2022 and 2024 calling for NRC implementation. He also cited communications sent by the State Government to the Union Home Ministry regarding the matter. Dr Ranjan said NRC updation is important in view of demographic changes and concerns over unauthorised immigration, while appealing for democratic and non-violent protests.

KCP Taibanganba Cadres Surrender

Imphal, August 18: Forty-six cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party Taibanganba Group, including Chairman Haobijam Dilip alias Taibanganba, surrendered before Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand at a Home Coming Ceremony at the 1st Manipur Rifles Parade Ground. The group’s Vice Chairman, General Secretary, General Secretary (Organisation and Public Relations) and Finance Secretary were among those who laid down arms. The cadres handed over 20 firearms, 216 rounds of ammunition and three explosives to the government. Welcoming the surrender, the Chief Minister urged other armed groups to join the peace process and assured support to those choosing the path of peace.

Sharda Devi Nominated to DoNER Consultative Committee

New Delhi, August 18: Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi has been nominated as a member of the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, commonly known as DoNER. The nomination was made through a notification issued by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs on August 17, 2026. The committee provides a platform for Members of Parliament to discuss issues concerning the development of the northeastern region and review matters related to the ministry. Sharda Devi’s inclusion comes at a time when development, infrastructure and connectivity remain key priorities for the northeastern states.

150 Essential Goods Trucks Leave Jiribam for Imphal

Jiribam, August 18: A convoy of 150 trucks carrying essential commodities left Jiribam for Imphal this morning under security escort. Among the vehicles, 68 trucks were carrying essential supplies including LPG, petrol and diesel. The movement comes amid continuing efforts to maintain the supply of essential commodities to the Imphal valley during the ongoing disruption caused by the JFD general strike. At the same time, 150 empty trucks left Imphal for Khongsang around 7 am under security escort. The escorted movement is intended to ensure uninterrupted transportation of essential goods along the Jiribam-Imphal route.

Pebam Jack Appointed LJP Youth Wing President

Imphal, August 18: Pebam Jack has been appointed as the State President of the Lok Janashakti Party (Ram Vilas) Youth Wing, Manipur unit. The appointment was announced through a notification issued by the party’s National Youth Wing President and North East States In-charge, Pranab Kumar. Jack will lead the party’s youth wing in Manipur and oversee its organisational activities among young people in the state. The appointment comes as political parties continue to strengthen their organisational structures and expand youth participation ahead of future political activities.

NETA Condoles Founder President Irengbam Ibomcha

Imphal, August 18: The North Eastern Theatre Association, Heingang, has condoled the demise of its founder President Irengbam Ibomcha. The association organised a condolence meeting at his residence at Heingang Mayai Leikai, where members and well-wishers expressed grief over his passing. Participants recalled Ibomcha’s contribution to the organisation and the theatre movement and said his demise had created a significant void in the activities and functioning of NETA. Members offered condolences to the bereaved family and remembered the late founder president for his association with the development of theatre activities in Manipur.

Eastern Command Commendation Card for Shreeman

Imphal, August 18: Wangkheirakpam Shreeman of Nongmeibung Wangkheirakpam Leikai has been awarded the Ministry of Defence’s Eastern Command Commendation Card for his contribution to skill education and job placement for youth. The award was presented on the occasion of Independence Day in accordance with the instructions of Eastern Command General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Lieutenant General V.M. Bhuvana Krishnan. Shreeman was recognised for his efforts to provide skill-based education and employment opportunities to young people. The commendation acknowledges his contribution towards enhancing vocational skills and supporting youth in accessing employment opportunities.

Bishnupur District Competition Announced for September 20

Bishnupur, August 18: The third annual Bishnupur District Level Competition will be held on September 20 in connection with Hijam Irabot Day. The event is being organised jointly by the All Meitei Pangal Youth Association and Manipur Youth and Students Unions with the objective of enhancing knowledge and awareness among students. Speaking at a press conference at Kwakta, AMPYA Students Wing President Awesh Khan appealed to students across Bishnupur district to participate in the competition. He also urged school authorities to encourage their students to take part. Organisers said the programme is aimed at promoting awareness and knowledge among the younger generation.

Woman Arrested With Suspected Heroin in Churachandpur

Churachandpur, August 18: A 26-year-old woman was arrested with 2.6 kilograms of suspected heroin powder in the Tuibong area of Churachandpur. According to a police press release issued on August 17, the joint operation was conducted on August 14 by personnel of Churachandpur Police Station, Women Police Station and 37 Assam Rifles based on credible information about suspected contraband. Police identified the arrested woman as Nemneihoi Touthang. She was allegedly found in possession of 197 soap cases containing the suspected heroin powder. The arrested person and seized contraband have been taken up for further legal proceedings and investigation under relevant narcotics laws.

NAB Arrests Alleged Drug Smuggler

Kangpokpi, August 18: The Narcotics and Affairs of Border Police Station has arrested alleged drug smuggler Manikumar Sunari, son of Gangaram Sunari of Saitu Gamphazol in Kangpokpi district. The arrest was made during an investigation into a case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. The case relates to the earlier seizure of thousands of bottles of cough syrup containing codeine. NAB Police have been investigating the alleged supply and distribution network linked to the seized contraband. Sunari’s arrest is part of continuing action by the state’s anti-narcotics authorities against the trafficking and illegal distribution of controlled substances.

Mild 3.5-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Ukhrul

Ukhrul, August 18: A mild earthquake measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale struck Ukhrul district at 9:46 am today. According to the official report, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre located at 24.986 degrees latitude and 94.412 degrees longitude. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the tremor. Manipur lies in a seismically active region and experiences occasional low-intensity earthquakes. Authorities have not reported any major disruption resulting from today’s tremor. Residents in the affected area felt the shaking, but the earthquake did not cause any reported loss of life or property.

Seminar on Church Administration Begins in Noney

Noney, August 18: A two-day seminar on Church Administration and Financial Accountability began today at Longmai Part 4 Baptist Church in Noney district. The seminar is being organised by the Longmai Zone of the Rongmei Baptist Churches Council under the theme “Together We Build: Strong Families, Stronger Church.” The programme focuses on strengthening church administration and promoting greater accountability in financial management. Church leaders and members are participating in the seminar, which aims to encourage responsible institutional practices while strengthening families and church communities. The programme will continue for two days with discussions and sessions centred on the theme.

Manipur Wins 15 Medals at National Triathlon Championship

Imphal, August 18: Manipur athletes secured 15 medals, including eight gold, three silver and four bronze, at the ITF National Age Group Triathlon Championship held in Pune from August 14 to 16. Around 460 athletes from across India competed in the championship under the aegis of the Indian Triathlon Federation. Manipur’s gold medallists included Nongmaithem Dhananjoy, Thokchom Gautam, Nongmaithem Nelshi, Laikhuram Biten, Shaikhom Bishworjit, Ngangom Dewanjit and Akoijam Langlen. Silver medallists were Telheiba Soram, Mohammed Danish and Leishangthem Sayonbi, while Leishangthem Rebison, Nongmaithem Nelshi, Sarungbam Athouba and G.A. Kenyson won bronze.

Khundrakpam Team A Wins Kang Tournament Match

Imphal, August 18: Khundrakpam Team A Kangkhut emerged victorious in the third league match of the first Sinam Nodiachand Memorial Invitation League-cum-Knockout Kang Tournament. Organised by Laijing Ningthou Apunba Kangkhut Thangmeiband with funding support from the Sinam Nodiachand Memorial Foundation, the match was played yesterday. Khundrakpam Team A defeated LAK Team A Thangmeiband Kangkhut 12-10. A total of 12 Kang teams from different parts of Manipur are participating in the tournament, divided into four groups for the league round. The fourth league match will be played on August 21 between Khundrakpam Team A Kangkhut and Singjamei Team K.