A joint protest demonstration was held at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, on Saturday, marking two years since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, 2023. Organized under the theme “We Stand for Manipur: A Multi-Ethnic State,” the protest demanded that the Government of India end the ethnic division of Manipur and ensure the safe return of all internally displaced persons (IDPs), including Indigenous Meeteis and Indian Kuki citizens.

Led by the Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC), Manipur Students’ Association Delhi (MSAD), MAOYOND, UNIKAS, and supported by Meitei Alliance, the protest drew strong participation and sharp criticism of the Centre’s handling of the crisis. Protestors accused the government of enabling ethnic segregation through policies such as buffer zones and the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki militants.

Key demands included the dismantling of buffer zones, termination of SoO agreements, neutralisation of cross-border insurgency, and restoration of unrestricted movement across Manipur. Protestors also alleged continued militant attacks on Meetei villages and blamed government inaction for the ongoing displacement of thousands.

Notable speakers included MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, journalist Rinku Khumukcham, classical dancer Sharon Lowen, author Agnotos Theos, and several student and youth leaders. They called for constitutional safeguards and urgent government intervention to restore peace, unity, and territorial integrity.

A memorandum was submitted to the Prime Minister demanding immediate steps to end ethnic division, restore normalcy, and ensure the safe return of all displaced communities.