Ukhrul, May 25: At least three protesters were injured on Sunday while attempting to storm the Raj Bhavan over a growing identity row over the incident of May 20 where a media team traveling from Imphal to Ukhrul in a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus to cover the inaugural ceremony of the 5th Shirui Lily Festival was asked to conceal the word “Manipur”.
One woman reportedly sustained a severe leg injury and was subsequently transferred to JNIMS hospital for treatment. Rapid Action Force and police intervened at Kangla Western Gate, using tear gas to disperse the protesters. Protesters gathered in large numbers at Khwairamband Ima Market and began marching along BT Road toward the Governor’s residence.
The confrontation occurred following the expiration of a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a coalition of civil society organisations, demanding an official apology from the Governor of Manipur.
In addition to the apology demand, COCOMI has called for the resignation of the Security Advisor, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police, holding them accountable.
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In response, COCOMI, called for a bandh starting at midnight on Wednesday, which continued until midnight Friday.
The Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF) on Saturday organised a ‘human chain’ protest along National Highway 150 (Tiddim Road) on Saturday under the banner “Manipur Muthatpa Yaroi” (Do Not Obliterate Manipur).
It may be mentioned that the Government of Manipur has constituted an official Inquiry Committee to investigate the May 20 incident and recommend preventive measures.