March 16, 2026 (IMP): “If the reasons for the imposition of restrictions on the Churachandpur march are not clarified, we will proceed to the CM Bungalow,” stated Malem Thongam, who has set out on a 16-district solo cycle rally to carry the peace message across Manipur.
He was enthusiastically received by the “Meitei Community Joint Co-Ordinating Committee – Waithou, Kiyam, Kiyam Siphai, Haokha & Waithou” (MCJCC) at Babu Bazar in Thoubal District today.
The peace march of Malem Thongam, which was supposed to go from Chandel to Churachandpur, was obstructed by the administration in Chandel. Upon his return journey, the MCJCC women heartily supported him by cheering him on at Babu Bazar.
Expressing his gratitude to the “Meitei Community Joint Co-Ordinating Committee, Waithou, Kiyam, Kiyam Siphai, Haokha & Waithou” for their encouraging reception, Malem Thongam stated that his intention is to spread the message of peaceful coexistence and restoration of peace across all 16 districts of Manipur, inspired by the “Idea of Manipur” and drawing parallels with the peace march in Kashmir.
The march began from Lamangdong Market in Bishnupur on the 12th of this month with the support and encouragement of the public. After passing through Kakching District yesterday, he reached Chandel District today. Unfortunately, despite being cheered by the public at Chandel Market, he was informed by the Manipur Government that he could not proceed further from Chandel Market, which was an unfortunate incident. His planned journey from Chandel to Chakpikarong to Churachandpur was thus disrupted, and he returned via Pallel today, taking the opportunity to travel towards Thoubal.
More unfortunately, today at 1 PM, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) issued a statement stating that his peace march should be confined to the Meitei-dominated areas of 650 square miles, and that if he exceeds this limit, it would be considered problematic, especially his entry into Churachandpur. What action the Manipur Government will take regarding this, he asked.
Malem Thongam said that the newly formed government has failed to instil confidence in the people that it will protect the Kuki-Zo people coming from the hills to Imphal. Many Kuki-Zo people have also been seen at Imphal Airport and various hospitals in Imphal. However, why there is a lack of confidence among the Meitei people when they travel to Kuki-dominated areas is a very unfortunate situation.
Therefore, regarding his march to Churachandpur scheduled for tomorrow, March 17, the government must issue a statement by 9 AM tomorrow. Otherwise, at 11 AM, he plans to storm the Chief Minister’s bungalow and take action,” Malem Thongam announced.
