Imphal: Over 10,050 Village Defence Force (VDF) personnel, a community-based security force that assists Manipur police in maintaining law and order, particularly in red zones and rural areas, launched an indefinite “Pen Down, Gun Down” strike for the second consecutive day on Wednesday.
The strike was called by the All Manipur VDF Employees’ Welfare Association following the imposition of President’s Rule and the Manipur government’s failure to address their demands.
These demands include the implementation of Section 18 of the Police Act, 1861, in line with VDF recruitment rules, an increase in pay, and the regularisation of their service.
The Manipur Home Department, in May 2025, formed a high-level police committee to investigate the issues and hardships faced by VDF personnel, aiming to resolve their grievances, improve their security situation, and submit a report by November 2025.
However, the report has not yet been submitted to the concerned authority, the Association president said.
The president further stated that VDF personnel have been crucial in providing local security amidst ongoing ethnic conflict but face challenges regarding wages, equipment, and clear operational roles.
The report is expected to guide government action on their welfare.
As the government has failed to act within the specified timeframe, the Central Committee of the VDF, along with 10,050 personnel, has resolved to resort to democratic agitation and continue the strike.
Additionally, under President’s Rule, the services of the 10,050 Village Defence Force personnel have been re-engaged since May 17, 2025, and will continue until March 2026.