Widespread and violent protests followed Manorama's killing

But a spokesman for the 32 groups leading the protest says they are ready to negotiate with the government. The government has refused to lift the anti-terror law saying it needs it to fight separatists.

Manipur has been on the boil since the killing and alleged rape of a Manipuri woman held by Indian soldiers in July.

A spokesman for Apunba Lup, a collection of 32 students and rights groups which has spearheaded the protests, told the BBC they would negotiate with Delhi if the government would stop arresting their leaders and using the police to break up peaceful protests.

But he said they would continue to press for the lifting of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act from Manipur.

The act gives the armed forces wide-ranging powers to arrest and shoot suspected rebels and search their homes.

Blockade

The protesters have put up barricades at various points on the two highways - one which connects Manipur to the neighbouring state of Nagaland and the other to Assam.

Transporters have kept their vehicles away out of fear T Muivah Police commissioner Midnight knock and a killing too far

Buses and trucks have stopped travelling on them although the police say some cars can be seen on the road.

"Transporters have kept their vehicles away out of fear," police superintendent T Muivah told Reuters.

Students groups have also called for a ban on the Hindi language being taught in schools and colleges across Manipur.

"What's the point in learning the national language when Delhi has a different set of rules for Manipur," Ksh Umesh, president of the All Manipur Students' Union, is quoted as saying by the Associated Press.

Manipur has been hit by protests after the bullet-riddled body of Manorama Devi was discovered in July, a day after she was arrested by the paramilitary Assam Rifles.