The Manipur State Government held a press briefing this afternoon at the Conference Hall of the Old Secretariat Office, Imphal, to update the public on recent developments and actions taken by the administration.
Addressing the media, Chief Secretary P.K. Singh, accompanied by Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, highlighted the successful conduct of the Shirui Festival 2025 in Ukhrul. He described the event as a major step in the State’s normalcy-restoration process, drawing an estimated 1.70 lakh visitors from across communities within and outside the State. The festival, he said, was held in a secure and peaceful atmosphere, made possible by the State administration’s comprehensive security arrangements.
However, the Chief Secretary also addressed the controversy surrounding a May 20 incident, when a Manipur State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus ferrying journalists to the festival was reportedly stopped and the State’s name covered on the vehicle. The incident has drawn widespread criticism and raised concerns among the public.
Clarifying the matter, Singh stated that there was no instruction or intention from the government to cover the name of the State and that such claims have been clearly refuted by both the State Government and political leadership. He emphasized that the facts on the ground will be established only after a thorough inquiry.
He informed the media that the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur has constituted a high-level Inquiry Committee comprising the Commissioner (Home) and the Secretary (IT). The committee has been asked to submit a report within a fixed timeframe, and Singh assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible for any lapses.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the integrity of Manipur, the Chief Secretary stressed that efforts like the Shirui Festival are aimed at restoring peace and fostering unity among all communities in the State.
In his closing remarks, Singh appealed to all citizens to cooperate with the administration in maintaining public order and to support ongoing peace-building efforts.
