A significant rally unfolded in Manipur today, reverberating with impassioned calls to safeguard the state’s territorial integrity amidst the ongoing crisis.
Demonstrators articulated a series of demands, notably urging the cessation of what they perceive as attempts by the Indian government to eradicate indigenous communities in Manipur. They called for an end to the divide-and-rule policy, the eradication of narco-terrorism, and the expulsion of narcotics infiltrators from abroad. Furthermore, they demanded the annulment of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with narco-terrorists and the expedited implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The protesters also opposed disarmament or the retrieval of arms before the cessation of violent conflicts and requested a halt to combing operations until armed confrontations with narco-terrorists have ceased.
The protest, organized by the Coordinating Committee of Manipur Integrity, attracted thousands of participants from diverse backgrounds. The march proceeded from Imphal’s THAU Ground to Khuman Lampak under the banner “Manipur Kanba Khongchate” (to protect and safeguard Manipur).
Echoing through the streets were chants of “Long Live Manipur,” “Don’t Disintegrate Manipur,” and “Manipur Mother Outshine All,” as demonstrators pressed for an immediate resolution to the crisis without compromising the state’s territorial integrity. Among the marchers were two Meitei MLAs, Sapam Nishikanta and Thangjam Arun, who joined to show their support. The rally underscored the collective resolve of the people of Manipur to protect their homeland and maintain its unity amidst ongoing challenges.
