IMPHAL: Authorities in Manipur have imposed prohibitory orders in Imphal East and Imphal West districts for an indefinite period in view of the continued protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.
The capital city of Imphal falls under both Imphal East and Imphal West districts. The prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC in the two districts were imposed on Tuesday night, officials said.
Mobile internet services have also been suspended indefinitely. Security has been strengthened in the residences of MLAs and ministers, including that of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, the officials said. While roads were deserted in both the districts, police personnel were seen informing people through loud speakers about imposition of the prohibitory orders and asking them to stay indoors.
Security forces have also set up barricades on major roads. Markets, schools, colleges and offices were closed, the officials said. The bill, being vehemently opposed in the North East even by parties that are allies of the BJP, was passed in Lok Sabha on January 8 and the Centre had said it will try to get the Rajya Sabha nod in this Budget session. Meanwhile, the 36-hour shutdown called to protest against the bill is continuing in Jiribam district, affecting normal life since 5 am on Monday.
The shutdown was called by the Peoples’ Alliance Manipur (PAM), a conglomerate of several organisations. (PTI)
