18-hour-long shutdown cripples normal life in Manipur

Imphal (Manipur) [India], Oct 21 (ANI): Life in Imphal was brought to a standstill with streets wearing deserted look as shops, schools and other business establishments remained closed after CorCom, a conglomerate of various rebel groups called for an 18-hour general strike in the state. However, some people said despite the shutdown, they continued with their daily life. "We also don't like bandhs but what can we do? We cannot survive without eating and there are people who are studying so even if we are scared we still come out and continue with our livelihood," said a local. Business establishments at all valley districts, including Kwairamband Keithel, Bishnupur and Thoubal etc remain shut. Vendors at famous Ima market in Imphal faced huge losses as they struggled to attract customers due to the bandh. "We don't have enough options and very limited spaces. We are of course scared to come out in such situation but we are helpless as we don't have other source to earn our livelihood. Even if we are being threatened that we would die or fall sick but inspite of all that we come out to sell our goods in the market because we are helpless," said a woman vendor to ANI. Interstate bus services also remained suspended, thereby leaving the passengers a harried lot. The frequent shutdown calls by the underground outfits in the state has created a huge gap in terms of overall development inspite of the fact that the state has got immense opportunities and potentialities. (ANI)