Imphal: Thousands of individuals representing diverse communities and backgrounds across Manipur participated fervently in the “Manipur Kanba Khongchat” or “Save Manipur Rally,” organized by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Friday. The rally commenced from THAU Ground in Thangmeiband in the morning and culminated at Khuman Lampak, where a public meeting was convened.
Leaders from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Meira Paibi members, senior citizens, youths, students, and notable figures such as Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar and Keishamthong MLA Nishikant Sapam joined the rally, which traversed significant areas including Nagamapal, BT Road, Kangla Western Gate, Khuyathong Traffic Point, and North AOC. Throughout the rally, participants echoed slogans affirming Manipur’s unity and condemning divisive policies.
The rally emphasized the unwavering unity of Manipur’s people and strongly opposed any efforts to divide the state or establish separate administrations. There were calls for the eradication of Kuki narco-terrorists from the region and the termination of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with Kuki militants.
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In response to the rally, Khwairamband Ima Market and other local markets observed a noticeable shutdown, with shops, except pharmacies, remaining closed. Women vendors from Khwairamband Ima Market suspended their work to participate in the rally, contributing to reduced vehicular movement. Security forces maintained strict vigilance to ensure the rally proceeded peacefully without any untoward incidents reported.
The public meeting held at Khuman Lampak concluded with attendees pledging collective efforts to safeguard Manipur’s integrity and unity against external challenges, marking a unified stance in the face of the ongoing crisis facing the state since May 3 last year.