Normal life came to a grinding halt across the Zeliangrongpui-inhabited areas of Manipur following an indefinite emergency shutdown called by the Joint Tribes’ Council (JTC). The total shutdown, which commenced Monday night, severely crippled movement in Noney district and completely choked National Highway 37—the vital Imphal–Jiribam supply route.
More than 250 loaded vehicles, including critical fuel tankers, remain stranded along the highway from the Leingangpokpi outpost to Jiribam, threatening to disrupt essential supplies to the state. Marketplaces, business establishments, commercial banks, and fuel stations all pulled down their shutters as bandh supporters blocked key arterial roads.
The apex civil body, which represents the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme tribes, enforced the strict shutdown in protest against the abduction of six innocent Naga civilians. The victims were allegedly kidnapped by suspected Kuki militants on May 13, 2026, near Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district.
JTC officials have stated that the blockade will not be lifted until the state government secures the safe, unharmed release of all six civilians and metes out strict justice against the perpetrators. Security forces are currently monitoring the situation along the deserted highways, but tensions remain high as the deadlock continues to paralyze the region.
