Imphal, Oct. 20 -- Normal life was disrupted across Manipur's five valley districts on Tuesday as markets, banks and schools remained closed during a 48-hour statewide strike called to protest the killing of three Meitei firewood collectors by suspected militants.

Civil society groups called the shutdown after the three men were killed at Sunurok hills in Kangpokpi district on Monday. Authorities increased security across the state, including in Imphal.

Public transport remained off the roads, while only a few private vehicles were seen in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts.

The Native People's Committee Manipur called a 48-hour shutdown, while the Ireipak Kanba Apunba Lup launched a separate 24-hour st...