Imphal, Sept. 12 -- The Joint Tribes' Council Manipur (JTCM) on Saturday afternoon announced the immediate withdrawal of its total shutdown along National Highway-37, the key route connecting Imphal with Silchar through Jiribam, as well as its protest against central government projects.

The decision came after the safe release of five Naga women who had been detained on Thursday at Noney Bazaar by personnel of the CRPF's Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA). The detentions took place amid an economic blockade being enforced by the United Naga Council (UNC).

The five women were identified as Rose Kamei, Stella Thaimei, Khamsinliu Phaomei, Kumtharla Kamei and Ellen Kamei.

Following their detention, the JTCM had called for a to...