The eviction drive was met with immediate resistance. As demolition teams started their work, furious shopkeepers downed their shutters in unison, turning the market lanes into a sea of closed shops. Protesters accused the administration of acting without proper notice or consideration for their livelihoods.
TFM Report
Tensions flared in the heart of Manipur’s capital as an eviction drive led by the Imphal West District Administration triggered a mass protest at Thangal Bazaar, one of the city’s oldest and busiest commercial hubs. The crackdown, aimed at reclaiming public land from alleged encroachments, forced traders to shut their shops in defiance, bringing daily business to a standstill.
Eviction Drive Sparks Outrage
The operation began early Wednesday morning, with district officials, backed by police and municipal staff, moving in to dismantle unauthorized structures—extended shop fronts, roadside stalls, and temporary sheds—that authorities claimed were obstructing roads and public pathways.
However, the move was met with immediate resistance. As demolition teams started their work, furious shopkeepers downed their shutters in unison, turning the market lanes into a sea of closed shops. Protesters accused the administration of acting without proper notice or consideration for their livelihoods.
“They gave us no real time to respond or relocate. This market is our only source of income. If the government wanted to clear encroachments, they should have at least discussed rehabilitation,” said an agitated trader, echoing the sentiments of many.
A Market Steeped in History and Commerce
Thangal Bazaar, a historic trading center in Imphal, houses hundreds of small and medium businesses, many of which have operated for generations. The sudden eviction drive has raised fears of severe economic disruption, particularly for daily wage earners and small vendors still recovering from recent financial hardships.
“Where will we go? How will we feed our families? The government can’t just bulldoze our shops without a plan,” lamented another protester.
Administration Stands Firm
District officials, however, insisted that the eviction was lawful and necessary. A senior administration official stated that repeated notices had been issued well in advance, warning occupants to clear encroachments that were narrowing roads, choking traffic, and posing safety hazards.
“This is not arbitrary—we have followed legal procedures. Public land cannot remain illegally occupied,” the official said. “While we are open to dialogue, the rule of law must prevail for the larger public interest.”
Tense Standoff, No Violence Reported
As crowds swelled in protest by afternoon, authorities temporarily halted the eviction to prevent escalation. Heavy security was deployed around the market, though the situation remained tense but peaceful.
The district administration clarified that the anti-encroachment campaign would continue in phases across Imphal, with assurances that legal protocols and humanitarian concerns would be considered. Officials also urged traders and residents to cooperate for the city’s long-term development.
The confrontation has put the spotlight on the government’s challenge—enforcing urban order while safeguarding the livelihoods of small traders. As the standoff continues, residents and business owners wait anxiously to see whether a compromise can be reached or if more protests will erupt.
For now, Thangal Bazaar remains shut, its usually bustling lanes silent—a stark symbol of the growing rift between civic authorities and those who depend on the market for survival.