Manipur: Traders shut down in protest against repeated extortion bids

IMPHAL: Manipur capital Imphal came to a standstill on Monday as all the markets and business establishments were closed following a 24-hour total shutdown call given by the traders in protest against repeated attacks and extortion bids.

The supply of essential commodities to various districts was also disrupted as the godowns of the wholesalers at Thangal Bazaar and MG Avenue downed their shutters to extend their support to the shutdown call.

The Paona Bazaar Masjid road, which thrives during morning hours, was unusually quiet on Monday.

The retail markets at the Paona International Market and the Kaul area were also shut.

On Saturday night, a labourer from Jharkhand was killed while two others from the same state were injured in an attack by unidentified assailants in the Naoremthong area of Imphal West district. The victims are associated with a construction company.

Several other sporadic attacks by unidentified attackers on the shopkeepers and traders took place during the past few days. There were also several reports of extortion from businessmen. The Manipur police have so far arrested seven individuals for their alleged involvement in the attacks.

Despite the swift action by the police and other law enforcement agencies, tension among the traders remains high.

On his part, local MLA Khumukcham Joykisan has warned that legal actions would be taken against those harassing the traders and other people.

The paralysis of business activities not only impacts the economy, but also highlights the deteriorating law and order in Manipur, raising concerns about the state's stability.

Similarly, an indefinite shutdown of trades shops and business establishments commenced in Nagaland's commercial capital, Dimapur on April 26. Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) called for shutdown. They aimed to protest against "unabated extortion" by underground outfits.

Shutdown garnered support from traders' bodies in other Nagaland districts. This amplified impact of the protest. DCCI had previously urged state government to take immediate action against illegal and forcible extortion of money from business community. Organization stated that administration and law enforcement agencies could no longer afford to overlook these illegal activities. These severely affect business community.

"We had to launch shutdown as no action was taken by government against extortionists." This was what the DCCI said in a statement. The group highlighted ongoing issues of "unabated multiple taxation" and "intimidation" by groups. There was "no end in sight."

 Also Read: Manipur: Khwairamband Bazaar Announces 24-Hour Shutdown in Protest Against Rising Violence (sentinelassam.com)

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