Shutdown by Pro-NRC Group Disrupts Imphal Valley Life, Attacks on Naga Villages in Manipur

In Brief

1. Four Naga villages in Manipur's Kangpokpi district came under attack, leaving a pastor injured.
2. A 24-hour shutdown called by a pro-NRC group disrupted normal life across the Imphal Valley.
3. The Centre deferred the Census 2027 house-listing operations in the state following demands for an "NRC-first" exercise.
4. Protesters continue to enforce shutdowns seeking formal government assurances on the NRC issue.

Four Naga villages in Manipur's Kangpokpi district—including Makui Pipuram and Tapon—recently came under attack, resulting in bullet injuries to a local pastor. The incidents have exacerbated existing ethnic tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, normal life across five districts in the Imphal Valley was severely disrupted due to a shutdown enforced by civil society groups demanding the implementation of a National Register of Citizens (NRC) prior to any census exercise.

The Centre, alongside the Manipur High Court, deferred the upcoming Census house-listing operations in the state to address public concerns and prevent further escalation. However, enforcement of the shutdown has continued as agitators seek a firm commitment from the central government.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely amid law and order concerns. While local Naga bodies alleged the involvement of armed groups in the village attacks, official statements from security forces regarding the perpetrators remain pending.