Tensions Rise as Manipur Braces for 24-Hour Bandh Over Custodial Death

Manipur government placed restrictions in Imphal East ahead of a statewide bandh protesting the custodial death of Khoisnam Sanajaoba. The Joint Action Committee organized the protest, demanding an investigation. The bandh follows unrest in the region, where prohibitory orders were issued to maintain public safety.

The Manipur government imposed prohibitory orders on parts of Imphal East district ahead of a statewide bandh initiated by a Joint Action Committee. The protest aims to contest the alleged custodial death of a 27-year-old man, Khoisnam Sanajaoba, earlier this month.

Khoisnam Sanajaoba was detained along with four others on March 31 for alleged connections with the banned Kangleipak Communist Party. After being held, the JAC claims Khoisnam died due to a lack of impartial investigation into his custody and has submitted demands to the governor, receiving no reply.

Protest activities have been rising, particularly in the Khurai constituency. Responding to potential unrest and threats to public safety during the bandh, district authorities have restricted gatherings and possession of weapons, effective from April 24-25. The region remains under President's rule following previous ethnic violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)