Law and order maintenance in Manipur is likely to face significant disruptions following the launch of an indefinite ‘Gun Down, Pen Down’ strike by Village Defence Force (VDF) personnel across the state from 6 a.m. today.

The strike was announced by the Central Committee of the All Manipur VDF Employees Welfare Association on Tuesday, citing the government’s continued failure to address their long-pending demands.

Key grievances include the implementation of Section 18 of the Police Act, 1861 in accordance with VDF recruitment rules, an increase in pay, and the renewal of their service term, which expired on March 31, 2025.

Despite the protest, the Association stated it remains open to negotiations if the government responds positively.

With over 10,000 VDF personnel deployed across the state, many in conflict-prone red zones assisting in counter-insurgency operations and protecting civilians in peripheral areas, the strike is expected to seriously hamper ongoing security and policing efforts.