Imphal: Normal life came to a standstill across Manipur due to the 18-hour strike called by an underground outfit protesting the merger of the state with the Union of India 53 years ago, official sources said.

Attendance in government offices was almost nil despite strict instructions by authorities asking employees to report for work on October 15. The government had also made arrangements for those who wished to stay back in the night, the sources said.

The government was now considering action against those who failed to report for work.

Official reports reaching Imphal said markets, shops and business establishments remained closed, while transport services were also suspended in view of the strike which began on October 14.

The strike has been called by Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF) which has been fighting for what it calls "an independent Manipur".

PTI