Imphal, Feb 18 : Businessmen in Imphal's Lilong Bazar recently came out on the streets to protest the killing of shopkeeper Talibur Rehman for his failure to meet the extortionist demands of militants.

"We condemn killing of innocent people. For some rupees they are killing and not even giving the time for clarification also. We can't live peacefully," said Jakirchand, a social worker.

"Militancy has completely shattered my family, and has made life very difficult for all at home. This is not only in my case, but for many others as well," said Sanathambal, Rehman's wife.

Businessmen in Manipur have staged street protests against underground groups before.

The frequent demands for ransom have ruined the state economy and affected the people at large.

Students and staff members of Little Master English Higher Secondary School also protested against Rehman's killing.

Boys and girls carried placards that said, "Make education a free zone", "No demand in any private school"," Do not threaten us", 'No unbearable financial demand to school".

"Law and order situation in Manipur is bad. As a student, I face problems. In such conditions, we can't study properly," claimed O. Anand Singh, a student.

ANI