June 8, 2026 (THOUBAL): A total shutdown was imposed across Thoubal District from midnight in protest against the issuance of a shop license to Vishal Mega Mart at Zero Kilometer, Thoubal Keithel.
Vendors and shopkeepers of Thoubal Keithel staged a protest and blocked roads after gathering at the market, demanding the revocation of the license. During the day, women vendors also blocked the National Highway.
Speaking during the protest, vendors Irom Subasini and Ningthoujam Singhajit said the opening of Vishal Mega Mart at Zero Kilometer, Thoubal Keithel, was an attempt by big corporate businesses to take over the state’s Ema Keithel and local trade. They said the people of Thoubal would not accept moves to divert the state’s money to outside traders.
The vendors said the shutdown would continue until Vishal Mega Mart is shifted. They had been protesting by blocking roads since May 30.
They said that when they met Chief Minister Khemchand, he assured them that the issue would be resolved in consultation with the concerned departments. Following that, officials from the departments met. The MAHUD Principal Secretary was scheduled to meet the vendors along with the Deputy Commissioner, Thoubal, today. However, they were informed that the Principal Secretary had gone on a two-day leave. The vendors said this was an insult and a sign of disregard toward them.
As a result, they announced that the total shutdown in Thoubal District would continue until Vishal Mega Mart is removed from Thoubal Bazar. They clarified that the protest would not obstruct medical services and emergency cases.
The vendors appealed to schools, colleges, shops, and other establishments in the district to remain closed and support the shutdown, and urged passenger vehicles to stay off the roads. They also called on CSOs, Meira Paibi groups, clubs, organizations, and the public to support the protest.
