Dealers said operating petrol pumps in Imphal has become unsafe amid repeated bomb threats, despite assurances and an anti-extortion cell set up by Manipur Police.
BY PC Bureau
, January 11, 2026 — Manipur’s Imphal Valley and adjoining areas are facing an acute fuel shortage after petrol pumps remained shut for the second consecutive day following an indefinite strike called by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF). The shutdown comes in the wake of a recent bomb attack on a fuel station in Bishnupur district, amid growing fears over extortion and security threats faced by fuel dealers.
The protest began on Saturday evening after MPDF announced the closure of all petrol pumps in the valley districts, citing repeated attacks and the lack of adequate security. Even before the shutdown took effect, long queues were seen at fuel stations, triggering panic buying. Petrol has since surfaced on the black market at prices as high as ₹160 per litre, nearly double the official rate.
Bomb Attack Sparks Shutdown
The immediate trigger was a bomb blast on Thursday night at M/S Elidas Fuel Station, a BPCL outlet on Moirang–Kumbi Road in Bishnupur district. Police said two unidentified men on a two-wheeler hurled an explosive near a fuel dispenser, damaging equipment and its concrete base. No injuries were reported.
In a memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the MPDF said this was the second such life-threatening incident in a short span. It referred to a December 6, 2025 incident in which a hand grenade was found at a petrol pump in Koirengei, Imphal East. “Despite repeated assurances, the threats continue unabated,” the dealers said.
Representing over 130 petrol pumps, the MPDF has demanded enhanced security for outlets and staff, government accountability for future attacks, full compensation for damaged infrastructure, and maximum compensation in case of injury or death. The fraternity has warned that fuel stations will remain closed indefinitely until an “amicable solution” is reached.
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Fuel stations across Manipur’s Imphal Valley shut down indefinitely after repeated bomb attacks on petroleum dealers.
Key developments:
– Latest attack: Jan 8 near Bishnupur fuel station
,- Dealers approached Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla demanding enhanced security
– Despite… pic.twitter.com/vJHjgeAOIG— Netram Defence Review (@NetramDefence) January 11, 2026
The shutdown has disrupted public transport and raised concerns over the supply of essential goods and medical services.
Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Bajpai said the government was taking steps to address the situation and remained open to talks. “We are ready to meet the fraternity for an amicable resolution,” he said, though no immediate security measures were announced.
Manipur Police have set up an anti-extortion cell, but dealers claim it has failed to deter threats. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over investigations into recent IED blasts, indicating possible involvement of organised militant groups.
A Recurring Pattern
Fuel pump owners in Manipur have repeatedly resorted to shutdowns amid extortion threats. In December 2025, around 130 pumps were closed for a day following grenade threats and what dealers described as “unbearable” demands for money. The MPDF has warned that dealers are caught in a bind—complying with extortion risks legal action, while refusal invites violence.
With Manipur still recovering from prolonged ethnic violence and economic disruptions since 2023, the fuel crisis threatens to deepen hardship. Unless concrete steps are taken to curb extortion and ensure security, dealers warn such shutdowns may become routine.
As talks remain inconclusive, residents fear that the crisis could escalate further, bringing daily life in the valley to a near standstill.
