Imphal, May 20: A Manipur State Transport (MSRTC) bus carrying members of the media coverage team for the 5th State Level Shirui Festival was forced to return from Yaingangpokpi in Imphal East district after security forces allegedly instructed the team to cover the word “Manipur” displayed on the vehicle’s windshield.

According to a media person who was part of the team, security personnel stopped the bus and objected to the visible “Manipur” banner, prompting the team to turn back. The bus had been specially arranged by the state government for the festival coverage.

The incident has raised questions regarding the current security protocols and sensitivities surrounding state identification in conflict-affected regions.