General strike cripples life in Manipur state

Imphal, Oct 15: Life was affected in Manipur following the Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF)-sponsored general strike.

The MPLF, an umbrella organisation of the militant outfits operating in Manipur, called the strike in protest against the "annexation" of the state in 1949.

Manipur had become a part of India on October 15, 1949, and the day was observed as "Black Day" in the state by the militant outfits. All the business establishments remained closed in the wake of the strike.

All inter-state bus services were also cancelled and all the streets wore a deserted look.

No vehicle plied on the roads.

Adequate security measures were taken following the strike.

The MPLF had also asked the people to observe the day as "National Black Day" and burn copies of the merger agreement by virtue of which Manipur became a part of India in 1949.

UNI