Government offices in the Manipur districts of Churachandpur and Pherzawl witnessed significant absenteeism on Monday in response to a protest call by the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF).
This development comes despite the state government's warning of applying the "no work, no pay" rule for unauthorised leave.
The ITLF, a Churachandpur-based organisation, urged government employees in the district to stay away from work to protest the suspension of head constable Siamlalpaul, who also belongs to the Kuki community over allegations that he had been training an armed group, who call themselves "village defence volunteers".
A video and a selfie of Siamlalpaul allegedly showed him alongside the armed men sparking controversy and leading to his suspension.
Siamlalpaul's viral selfie and video at a hill bunker have sparked controversy, revealing young individuals armed with military-grade assault rifles, sniper rifles, and even submachine guns like the German-origin MP5, all captured in the footage.
The group had issued a statement on Sunday warning government employees to stay away from work, claiming anyone defying their order would be held responsible for "unfortunate consequences."
The ITLF, however, said financial, medical and educational institutions would remain exempted from the shutdown.
In response, the state home department urged employees to disregard the ITLF's call, stressing that absence from work without authorization will result in no pay. This underscores the government's resolve to maintain normalcy and uphold official norms.
Sources reported a deserted atmosphere in government offices, with minimal employee presence.
Departments like Public Works, Agriculture, and Forestry in both districts saw closures due to absenteeism.
Employees who initially reported for work reportedly returned upon finding no colleagues present.
Notably, these districts are predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community, potentially explaining the widespread response to the ITLF's call.
Although government operations were disrupted, markets, schools, and private businesses remained unaffected, maintaining their usual activities.
The ITLF's protest extends beyond Siamlalpaul's suspension, demanding his reinstatement and the immediate replacement of the Superintendent of Police and Deputy Commissioner.
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