IMPHAL: A bandh call by the proscribed Maoist Communist Party Manipur (MCPM) brought the state capital to a grinding halt on Monday.The MCPM has called a 48-hour general strike demanding “restoration of disappearing historical and religious sites of Manipur” and save the land’s culture and tradition from “fascism”.Though there were no reports of major untoward incidents till the time of filing this report, a few vehicles were damaged by suspected bandh supporters in some parts of the valley Imphal West and Thoubal districts.The state government had on Saturday issued a strict warning asking its employees to attend office and traders to open shops during Monday’s general strike.In its order, it had warned of action against those who did not comply.“Attendance report should be sent to the concerned administrative departments, failing which departmental proceedings should be taken up against those who are absent from duty during this period,” it had warned. It also ordered all deputy commissioners to ensure all the offices in districts function and that staff turn up.However, business establishments in Imphal city — including Thangal Bazar, Bir Tikendrajit road, Paona Bazar, women markets, Khoyathong, Nagamapal, Keishampat and Wahengbam Leiaki — remained closed.Attendance at almost all government offices was thin though medical, emergency and essential services’ units remained open. Inter-state and inter-district passenger buses were off the road though emergency and religious service movements and regular flight services were not affected by the general strike.MCPM’s bandh also severely paralyzed normal life in other valley districts including Kakching , Bishnupur and Thoubal. Police and central security forces remained on high alert at various strategic locations in the twin capital districts of Imphal West and Imphal East to avoid unwanted activities.

Stay updated with all the Latest Imphal headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.