Imphal, May 16 (IANS): Even as the bitter row over three bills passed by the Manipur assembly and now awaiting presidential assent continues on, the tribal areas of the state started a general strike from Sunday midnight to protest against the proposed measures.

The strike has been called by various tribal organisations to protest what they term "anti-tribal" bills. On the other hand, a Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) has launched a agitation in support of the three bills. 

The Protection of Manipur Peoples Bill, 2015, The Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (7th Amendment) Bill, 2015, and The Manipur Shops and Establishments (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015, were passed by the Manipur assembly on August 31, 2015. 

Manipur's political parties were yet to finalise a team of representatives slated to visit New Delhi on Monday to urge the Centre for the presidential assent to the three bills. 

A Manipur politician said: "There is more than meets the eye (on these bills) and it will be suicidal to visit Delhi on the matter." 

Most politicians IANS talked to said the bills are stuck in view of objections from the tribals of Manipur.