Bandh in Manipur after killing of youth

Imphal, Sep 4 (UNI) Life was partially affected at Shamrou area of Imphal today after the local people called a 'Manipur bandh' protesting against the killing of a youth allegedly by the army.

The agitators blocked roads at Shamrou staging demonstrations against the 22 Maratha Light Infantry which had allegedly killed L Surjit on August 31.

The body of the deceased had been lying in the mortuary at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) as the people refused to take it.

An agreement inked between the government and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on Saturday ordered a magisterial inquiry to be completed within a month, official sources said.

However, the people have refused to accept the agreement, sources said.

The Working Committee of Apunba Lup, United Committee Manipur and several other organisations have alleged that the killing was a fake encounter.

People have demanded an immediate repeal of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 along with the removal of the military post from the area.

An Assam Rifles spokesman said the youth was killed in an encounter and the army recovered arms and ammunition from him.

However, the family members of the victim have denied the allegation.

UNI NS PP PL SS1334