Imphal, January 11, 2026: VDF personnel from Imphal East district on Sunday joined the ongoing statewide ‘arm-down, pen-down’ strike by staging a sit-in protest at Shoudongpung Lampak (OLA). The strike, launched on December 23, 2025, seeks to press the long-standing demands of the Village Defence Force (VDF).
Organised by the Imphal East District VDF Welfare Association, the protest saw participation from approximately 1,200 VDF personnel from various parts of the district. Demonstrators carried placards with slogans including “Governor and Government—Hear the Voice of VDF,” “One Voice, One Demand,” “Justice for VDF,” “All VDF Stand Together for Our Rights,” and “Our Demands Are Legitimate.” The protesters also raised similar slogans throughout the demonstration.
Speaking to media, an organiser said that there are around 10,050 VDF personnel across the state, engaged in various capacities under the Police and Home Departments, including Commando, Traffic, and other wings.
The strike aims to secure regularisation of services, revision of pay structures, and implementation of Section 18 of the Police Act, 1861, among other demands. The organiser warned that if the government does not address the demands by January 15, the VDF would hold a mega rally the following day, escalating their agitation for recognition and justice.
