In a fiery show of dissent, thousands of women marched through the streets in a torchlight rally last night, chanting “Go back Manipur Governor, go back…” in protest against the alleged directive by the 4th Mahar Regiment to remove the word “Manipur” from a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus used by journalists.
Protesters accused top state and central officials of failing to safeguard Manipur’s integrity, warning that such actions were symbolic attempts to erase the state’s identity.
The rally, organised by Aurora Club and Library, Laipham Khunou, drew massive participation from Laipham Khunou, Sangakpham, and Lei Ingkhol areas. It began from Sangakpham Bazar, proceeded to Khongnang Ani Karak, and returned to its starting point. Along the way, Meira Paibis from Chingmeirong joined, swelling the crowd into the thousands.
Security forces were deployed along the NH-2 route to prevent any untoward incident as protesters held placards and shouted slogans targeting the Governor, DGP, Chief Secretary, and Security Advisor, demanding their removal if they cannot defend the state’s identity. Slogans such as “Long Live Manipur” and “Manipur Muthatpa Yaroi” (Don’t Erase Manipur) echoed throughout the night.
One protester asked pointedly, “Why should the word ‘Manipur’ be removed in our own land? If you can’t protect our name, our identity—leave.”
As the chants of “Go back Governor” echoed through the night, the message was clear—people are no longer willing to tolerate silence or indifference from those entrusted with safeguarding the state’s integrity.
Similar torch rallies were reported across various parts of the valley districts last night, indicating a coordinated and widespread resistance.
