In Manipur, violence has erupted because of one word. Security forces in the Gwaltabi area ordered a government bus to cover the word 'Manipur', angering the Meitei community. The Kokomi organization has intensified protests, and central government offices have been locked. There is a demand for an apology from the Governor.
Manipur is facing turmoil yet again. On Tuesday, angry protesters targeted key sites like the Geological Survey of India and the District Election Office. Numerous central government offices were closed in several areas. The root of this conflict originates from an issue involving one word, which has grown into a significant problem. On May 20, journalists were transported in a government bus to cover the Shirui Lily festival in Ukhrul district.
In the Gwaltabi area of Imphal East district, security forces stopped a bus and instructed the Information and Public Relations Department (DIPR) personnel on board to conceal the word 'Manipur' on the bus's front with white paper. This incident, occurring last week, caused significant dissatisfaction among the Meitei community residing in the Imphal Valley, leading to protests. The demonstration escalated into more violent actions last Tuesday.
Kokomi takes the lead
In the meantime, the student faction of 'Kokomi,' which serves as the coordination committee for Meitei community groups, has escalated their demonstrations. This resulted in the closure of central government offices across various districts in the Imphal Valley. The demonstrators stormed into the Chief Electoral Officer's office, removed the personnel, and secured the entrance.
In addition to this, the Geological Survey of India's office was also sealed. During the demonstration, chants were directed at the governor, including demands such as "Apologize or leave Manipur."
Hundreds of people took to the streets
In the Lamlong area of Imphal East, hundreds of individuals marched in protest against the division of Manipur. Meanwhile, in Imphal West district, a human chain stretching 5 kilometers was organized from Singjamei to Lilong. Bishnupur district also witnessed demonstrations.
What are the protesters' demands?
Kokomi has called for Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to issue a public apology, and has also urged the Chief Secretary, DGP, and Security Advisor to step down from their positions.
What did former Chief Minister Biren Singh say?
Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh met with the governor to talk about the situation and suggested inviting the protesters for discussions, while a delegation from a Meitei organization in Manipur met with the central government on Tuesday to voice their worries about a recent event.
The delegation informed the Ministry of Home Affairs officials about the dangers of narco-terrorism, unlawful migration, extensive illegal opium cultivation, and the worsening law and order in the state, expressing their worries. The group was composed of seven members. Representing the Central Government, A.K. Mishra, Advisor on North Eastern Affairs, and Joint Director Rajesh Kamble from the Ministry of Home Affairs participated in the meeting.
What did the Congress say?
Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh called for measures against the officer who ordered the removal of the word 'Manipur' from the bus. He asserted that security forces cannot make such decisions without instructions from higher authorities. Additionally, he stated that if the Mahar regiment acted independently, they should also face consequences.
Singh emphasized that 'Manipur' holds historical significance and has been recognized by this name long before its integration into India in 1949. He called on the governor and other authorities to acknowledge and rectify their error.