Imphal, August 03: Scion of the Manipur royal family and a writer of eminence, MK Binodini Devi, has today given up Padmashree title, saying it holds little meaning for her today.

MK Binodini, at a brief press conference at her Yaiskul police lane residence this afternoon, said the Padmashree medal and citation will be dispatched to the President of India via a courier service today itself.

It may be recalled that the lady had on July 3, together with theatre personality of international renown, Ratan Thiyam, declared they would renounce their Padmashree titles.

Ratan Thiyam had already given up his title on July 17, registering his disappointment at the unconcern with which the Centre was handling the issues of the Northeast, particularly Manipur.

in a letter to the President of India, KR Narayan, that accompanied the medals and citation of the Padmashree, MK Binodini wrote “It is with regret and pain that I have come to this decision to return the Padmashree which I was honoured with in 1976.” “Although it was I this honoured, it was my birthplace, my people, my culture, which I had in mind and heart when I received it.

The little that I have accomplished, I owe to my homeland.

The integrity of Manipur has once again been put at risk without our consent or consultation.

It is a violation that may occur yet again.

I feel, therefore it is not right for me to keep an award that honours me but not the inspiration of my country.” MK Binodini’s letter to the President said.

Speaking to newsmen, she said this was not a bargain for any gain for herself or for Manipur, but was an offering she had decided to make to the living spirit of Manipur and she cannot take it back.

“I have little concern for politics but the manner the present surprise was sprung on Manipur hurt me deeply,” she said.

“History has left many scars on Manipur, but never once as deep as the present one”.

“In its little way, I had always believed my Padmashree reflected my pride in Manipur.

if Manipur is to sink, I choose to be with her in her time of crisis, in misery or in glory.” MK Binodini said.

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