The MHA’s directions came after the Election Commission asked it to step up security in West Bengal to ensure fair Lok Sabha elections, citing violence in previous polls.
The strike is part of an agitation demanding the withdrawal of suspension of a Kuki head constable, who was seen in a video with armed men from his community at what appeared to be a “frontline” firing position in the hills.
The ITLF threatened that if the suspension of the head constable was not withdrawn within 24 hours and the two officers did not leave, all government offices would be closed and “both the SP and DC will bear the responsibilities for any untoward incidents that may fall on them”.