Imphal, January 04: To protest the killing of IGP T Thangthuam and his escort commander S Khamkhanjam Paite in the December 31 attack at Oinam, a 24 hour State wide general strike has been called from midnight of January 6.The decision to impose the general strike was taken during a joint meeting of the Kuki Students' Organisation, Zomi Students' Federation, Hmar Students' Association, Paite Students' Organisation and Zillai at the Kuki Inn today.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, spokesman of the group, John Pulamte appealed to all to extend their co-operation to the 24 hour general strike called from midnight of January 6.On January 7 a meeting will be held to condole the death of Thangthuam and Khamkhajam and all those who died due to landmine explosions in Churachandpur district, said Pulamte and added that a public meeting will be held at Churachandpur public ground in the evening.

In the evening there will be a black out in all the areas under the jurisdiction of the different student organisations, he announced.

Demanding that the assassination case of the IGP be handed over to the CBI, Pulamte came down heavily against the statement issued by the RPF in which they claimed responsibility for killing the senior police officer.

Pulamte also questioned whether the attack on the IG's convoy was a New Year's gift by an outfit which has been maintaining that they will not strike out at State forces.

The spokesman also expressed regret over the damages inflicted on some vehicles in the outburst by the people on hearing the assassination at Churachandpur town.

He however said that suspending bus services to Churachandpur following the attack on some vehicles was uncalled for.

Student leaders present at the media briefing said that the State Government should ensure that bus service to Churachandpur is resumed at the earliest for the benefits of all.

Meanwhile the Social Development Association, Oinam Bazar Makha has deeply condoled the demise of the IGP and his escort commander in the December 31 attack.

In a statement issued to the press, the Association appealed to all underground outfits not to carry out such attacks at Oinam and at other public places in the future.

The Kuki National Council has also strongly condemned the killing of the senior police officer and his escort commander.

In a statement, KNC hailed Thangthuam as a man of integrity and honesty and added his death is a loss not only for the Kuki people but also for the whole people of Manipur.

The outfit also cautioned all tribal officers to take care of themselves in the future as the State Government cannot provide protection to them.

The KNC also said that it shares the grief and pain of the bereaved family members.

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