Tensions Escalate in Manipur as Demonstrators Prevented from Reaching Governor's Residence
Imphal witnessed a significant escalation in tensions as a peaceful protest led by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) turned violent near Raj Bhavan. The demonstration was in response to an incident on May 20, where security personnel allegedly instructed the removal of the word "Manipur" from a state transport bus's windshield, an act perceived as an affront to the state's identity.
The controversy began when a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus, carrying journalists to the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district, was reportedly stopped at the Gwaltabi checkpoint. Security personnel allegedly directed the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) staff to cover the "Manipur State Transport Corporation" signage on the bus. This incident sparked widespread outrage among civil society groups and journalists, leading to demands for a formal apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
In response to the perceived insult, COCOMI organized a mass protest march towards Raj Bhavan. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at Khwairamband Bazaar and proceeded towards the governor's residence. However, security forces intercepted the march near Kangla Gate, approximately 150 meters from Raj Bhavan. When protesters attempted to advance, security personnel employed tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the crowd. The confrontation resulted in injuries to at least eight women, who were subsequently hospitalized.
Among the injured were elderly women, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the force used. The injured were identified as Takhelchangbam Gyaneshwori (58), Ningthoukhongjam Priya (42), Thokchom Geeta (44), Nandeibam Shanti (72), Abe Devi (52), K Sabitri (60), Sanasam Malemnganbi (22) and Kh.Rajeshwori (64)
COCOMI condemned the use of force against unarmed civilians, particularly elderly women, and reiterated their demand for a public apology from Governor Bhalla. They also called for the resignation or immediate transfer of the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Security Advisor, holding them accountable for the incident.
In response to the escalating tensions, the Manipur government constituted a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the May 20 incident involving the bus signage.
The incident underscores the deep-seated sentiments surrounding regional identity and representation in Manipur. The aggressive response to the protest has intensified existing tensions, raising concerns about the state's approach to civil dissent and the protection of cultural identity.
The controversy began when a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus, carrying journalists to the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district, was reportedly stopped at the Gwaltabi checkpoint. Security personnel allegedly directed the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) staff to cover the "Manipur State Transport Corporation" signage on the bus. This incident sparked widespread outrage among civil society groups and journalists, leading to demands for a formal apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
In response to the perceived insult, COCOMI organized a mass protest march towards Raj Bhavan. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at Khwairamband Bazaar and proceeded towards the governor's residence. However, security forces intercepted the march near Kangla Gate, approximately 150 meters from Raj Bhavan. When protesters attempted to advance, security personnel employed tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the crowd. The confrontation resulted in injuries to at least eight women, who were subsequently hospitalized.
Among the injured were elderly women, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the force used. The injured were identified as Takhelchangbam Gyaneshwori (58), Ningthoukhongjam Priya (42), Thokchom Geeta (44), Nandeibam Shanti (72), Abe Devi (52), K Sabitri (60), Sanasam Malemnganbi (22) and Kh.Rajeshwori (64)
COCOMI condemned the use of force against unarmed civilians, particularly elderly women, and reiterated their demand for a public apology from Governor Bhalla. They also called for the resignation or immediate transfer of the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Security Advisor, holding them accountable for the incident.
In response to the escalating tensions, the Manipur government constituted a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the May 20 incident involving the bus signage.
The incident underscores the deep-seated sentiments surrounding regional identity and representation in Manipur. The aggressive response to the protest has intensified existing tensions, raising concerns about the state's approach to civil dissent and the protection of cultural identity.
