Several leading civil society organisations staged a protest rally condemning what they described as an alleged attempt by the Indian state to “obliterate” Manipur’s identity and integrity. The demonstration, marked by torch processions and slogans, was sparked by a recent incident at Gwaltabi involving personnel of the MAHAR Regiment.

The protest was led by the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, All Manipur Women’s Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA), Committee on Human Rights (COHR), Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF), and Khunnai Kanba Apunba Meira Paibi 2 (KHUKAMPAL-2), alongside local groups such as the Wangjing Khunou Meira Paibi and Young Star Social Club (YDSC), Wangjing Khunou.

Protesters expressed outrage over reports that MAHAR Regiment personnel allegedly stopped a Manipur State Transport vehicle ferrying journalists at Gwaltabi and ordered the word “Manipur” to be erased from the bus. Civil society leaders claimed the act was not just disrespectful but part of a broader effort to erase Manipur’s political identity and reduce the state to a subordinate entity.

Demonstrators carried banners reading “Manipur Muthatpa Yaroi” (Stop Obliterating Manipur) and “Condemn India’s Policy to Obliterate Manipur,” asserting that the Gwaltabi incident reflected a systematic policy under India’s national agenda to marginalize Manipur.

Speakers at the rally stressed that the incident was not isolated but symptomatic of a deeper, ongoing effort to strip the state of its historical and political significance. They warned that if such actions continued, they could lead to widespread unrest.

The protesting organisations reaffirmed their collective resolve to resist any policy threatening Manipur’s identity. They also announced plans to intensify their agitation until the state’s dignity and autonomy are safeguarded. Citizens were urged to remain vigilant and united in defending Manipur’s political and cultural integrity.