'Manipuri women's fight for justice reflects Nupi Lal's legacy
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 13 2024: Manipuri Women's enduring fight for justice and upholding territorial integrity of the state stands as a living testimony to the legacy of Nupi Lal, a historic movement that symbolised resilience and defiance against colonial oppression, stated the Manipur International Youth Centre (MIYC) in a statement.

MIYC, while expressing gratitude to individuals, organisations, and communities for their unwavering support in Keeping alive the spirit of Nupi Lal, highlighted the continuous struggles of Manipuri women against various forms of injustice, from colonial exploitation to modern-day atrocities, while calling for collective action to uphold the values of justice, equality, and dignity.

The Nupi Lal of 1904 and 1939 stand as pivotal moments in the history of Manipur's fight against British colonialism.

In 1904, Manipuri women revolted against the forced labour policy imposed by the British, demonstrating fierce determination against exploitation, it recalled.

Similarly, the 1939 Nupi Lal was a mass movement against the economic exploitation caused by the export of rice, which led to widespread famine in Manipur, it said, adding that these acts of defiance were wars against oppression, showcasing the unmatched bravery of Manipuri women.

MIYC highlighted the significance of Nupi Lal, comparing the 1904 uprising to the 1905 Russian Revolution in terms of intensity and resistance against oppressive forces.

"While the Russian Revolution confronted Tsarist autocracy, the Nupi Lal challenged the British colonial administration's exploitative policies.

Both movements were led by marginalised groups who defied subjugation, signalling their determination to resist exploitation".

According to the youth centre, this year's observance was marked by impactful events, including a women's marathon, song and recitation competitions, and cultural programmes, which honoured the sacrifices of the past while inspiring the younger generation to carry forward the legacy of resistance and resilience.

MIYC then applauded participants, organisers, and supporters for ensuring that the spirit of Nupi Lal continues to shine brightly, underlining that Nupi Lal is not just a historical event but a living movement.

"The ongoing resistance of Manipuri women, symbolised by the Meira Paibi, continues to fight against discrimination, violence, and oppression," it noted, adding that Meira Paibi, known as women with torches, represent the unyielding strength of Manipuri women in standing for justice and dignity.

Observing that the post-1949 era has seen the women's resistance movement reach iconic heights, including the, 16-year long fast by Irom Sharmila against the Armed Forces' Special Powers Act (AFSPA), it stated that the nude protest at Kangla in 2004, demanding the removal of Assam Rifles, further exemplified the unrelenting spirit of Manipuri women.

It also recalled the tragic cases'of Chanu Rose and Thangjam Manorama, stating that these incidents are stark reminders of the atrocities faced by Manipuri women and the resilience they have shown.

Advocating for the same reflection on the ongoing women's resistance movements and solidarity in their fight for justice, it also called for addressing recent concerns about certain behaviours that contradict the cultural values of Manipur, while urging for return to dignity and tradition.

MIYC saluted the bravery of Manipuri women, past and present, reaffirming the importance of preserving the legacy of this historic movement for future generations.

Comment