Stirred by what they call an affront to Manipur’s dignity, artists under AMMIK staged a sit-in protest today at Hatta Kangjeibung, Imphal East, after central forces allegedly removed the ‘Manipur’ tag from an MST bus bound for the Shirui Festival.
The bus was carrying media personnel when central forces ordered the removal of the state’s name tag, a move the artists slammed as symbolic erasure. Holding placards and chanting for peace, the protestors demanded accountability and respect for Manipur’s identity.
“Before the word Governor, DGP or Chief Secretary, there is Manipur tag,” declared one protestor, questioning the silence of authorities over the incident.
Calling the act a direct challenge to the state’s existence, AMMIK artists said they would not remain mute spectators to moves that undermine Manipur’s pride and presence.
