18-hour general strike hits normal life

IMPHAL, August 30: Normal life and daily routine of most people in the state remained crippled and affected during the 18-hour state-wide general strike called as a protest against the enforced disappearance of Irengbam Irabanta after he left his home alongwith one Winner Tangkhul to meet the NSCN (IM).

All major civil societies including AMUCO, NIPCO, UPF, IPSA and HERICOUN supported the general strike and all major transports including, inter state and inter district passenger vehicles remained off the roads.

Educational and entertainment institution and centres and most offices also remained closed during the 18 hours general strike spearheaded by the Joint Action Committiee Against the Abduction of Irengbam Irabanta Meitei by NSCN I-M Nongdam Maning Leikai.

However no untoward incidents were reported till the end of the general strike this evening at 6 PM. Except for a few personal and official belonging to security forces were seen plying during the general strike.

It may be recalled that Irengbam Irabanta, 38, son of Irengbam Kerani Singh of Imphal East District, Lamlai Police stattion, Nongdam Maning Leikai had left his Porompat residence on May 27 on a white Maruti Gypsy, bearing the registration number MN-O1K-2171 with Winner Tangkhul, 30, son of MC Ramshing Tangkhul from Harpham in Ukhrul district.

Iranbanta was reportedly abducted while he went to negotiate the differences regarding a supply works of Maphou Dam

Meanwhile, even though “the general strike” saw support from various civil society bodies and quit effective in keeping the public off the road, it has failed to heal the wounded heart of Irabanta’s wife Modhubala.

Modhubala expressed her sadness and disappointment towards the state government during a telephonic conversation with IFP today.

“My husband is innocent and this is the reason why they (abductors) are not giving any clarification or justification,” she said.

She said that the state government has not been able to provide any clear cut information regarding the case. Even after the arrestment of Winner, who is allegedly involved in the case, nothing has been made known to the people.

Helplessly she even approached the jail authorities to let her see Winner, as she wanted to ask him herself about the whereabouts of her husband, she said.

She appealed for the safe release of her husband for the sake of their small children.