Meitei and Kuki-Zo Communities Observe May 3 in Manipur

Imphal, May 3: Two years after violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023,  people today observed a sombre day of remembrance and solidarity, reflecting on a crisis that has profoundly disrupted lives and communities. 

The protracted conflict, marked by deep communal divisions and armed confrontations, has so far claimed over 250 lives, displaced more than 60,000 people, and devastated thousands of homes across both the valley and hill districts. 

With President’s Rule imposed on February 13, 2025 in a bid to restore order, civil society organisations, community groups and the public gathered statewide to honour victims, reaffirm their call for peace, and seek lasting reconciliation.

The Kuki-Zo community observed the day in Kangpokpi, Churchandpur and elsewhere as ‘Separation Day’.

In Imphal, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) led a large public convention titled Manipur’s Peoples Convention at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal, where thousands from various communities assembled to express unity and demand a peaceful resolution.

Simultaneously, the Federation of Civil Society Organisations, Manipur (FOCS) organised a Ningshing Numit observance at Yumnam Khunou Community Hall in Khundrakpam, Imphal East district. 

In Kakching district, Arambai Tenggol Kakching district hosted a memorial gathering at Thongjao Awang Leikai ground, attended by members of the Arambai Tenggol fraternity and local residents.

In Bishnupur district, a floral tribute was offered at Kha-Potshangangbam Ground, honouring those who lost their lives since May 3, 2023. The event was organised by Arambai Tenggol Bishnupur District Apunba, where 21 Tengol members laid wreaths alongside local residents and security personnel. Bishnupur MLA Govindas Konthoujam also attended, paying homage and addressing the gathering. Photographs of the deceased were displayed, and offerings were distributed to the families of the fallen Arambai Tenggol members.

Security measures were heightened across the state, with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) conducting intensified area domination patrols and security checks at vulnerable locations in Imphal and other sensitive areas. 

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Flag marches were carried out in multiple locations to prevent untoward incidents and reassure the public.

Meanwhile, normal life in the Imphal Valley came to a standstill on Saturday as educational institutions, markets, and business establishments remained shut while public transport services were suspended, showing solidarity to the day.

The public widely supported the call, demonstrating a collective sense of grief and remembrance.

The day concluded with a candlelight tribute and torch rallies in Imphal in honour of those who lost their lives in the violence, reinforcing calls for peace, justice and reconciliation.

(Newmai News Network)