Nupi Lal defines multiple qualities of Manipuri women
- The People's Chronicle Editorial :: December 13, 2022 -

AS stated by Governor La Ganesan in his Nupi Lal Day message that the revolt against the monopolistic administration of the erstwhile British ruler signified importance of women in the state and their role in the society, Manipuri women had been and will continue to raise their voice if any decision taken by the policy makers are detrimental to general interest of the people.

Having exhibited their steely resolve and fierceness in the confrontation with the British soldiers during the 1904 and 1939 uprisings, there is no doubt that Manipuri womenfolk, through the ages, continue to have the similar characteristics as is evident from their relentless campaigns against social ills and whenever threat is posed to the state's geo-politics.

Overwhelming participation of the political class, women daily wagers, social activists, educationists and commoners in the observance of Nupi Lal on this day every year rings out the message that the epochal uprisings by Manipuri women against the mighty British imperialists continue to be held in high esteem by all sections of the society.

Notably, the on-going protests against the incumbent government's decision to legalise production and sale of liquor, after over three decades of Manipur declared a dry state, bear testimony to their indomitable spirit in resisting any decision that tantamount to undermining interest and safety of the masses.

The government might be equally determined to go ahead and enforce the liquor policy but the sit-ins being staged at different parts of the state ever since the cabinet decided to do away with the dry state status signify that actual implementation of the policy wouldn't be smooth sailing.

From taking the lead in denouncing excesses committed by the security forces against the civilian population to maintaining vigil till late night to check the liquor menace, elderly Manipuri women have been the donning the role of both adorable mother and fiercest defender of the society.

Such qualities are precisely the reason why praises are showered upon the Manipuri womenfolk from all sections of the society when the state commemorates the Nupi Lal or observes the International Women's Day.

In his message, Governor Ganesan said: "It is quite befitting to remember those Manipuri women who fought against the oppressive economic and administrative policies of Manipur Maharaja and the then British Government in Manipur in the year, 1939.

They stormed the State Durbar Office asking for immediate stoppage of rice export, in which around 21 women were injured from the bayonets and butts of soldiers' weapons on December 12, 1939.

The day is remembered as Nupi Lal Day".

By recounting the valour of Manipuri women, the Governor has driven home the point that the commemorative event is not only of great significance but also testifies that no matter how strong the establishment is, unity is essential in exposing anti-people policies of any regime.

Having already displayed sheer grit and bravery in revolting against the monopolistic administration of the mighty British, Manipuri women are the epitome of sacrifice and source of inspiration for the younger generations.

The celebration of Manipuri women's exemplary deeds signifies that with the right ambition and steely resolve there is no barrier, including those considered to be domain of male, which could stop women and girls, from making their mark in the society.