CIRCA revives call for pre-merger status
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 14 2025: The Coalition for Indigenes' Rights Campaign (CIRCA) Manipur observed the 79th Independence Day of Manipur at Keibi Mana Ching with the hoisting of the Manipur flag.

Delivering the keynote address, Leishangthem Lamyanba, general secretary, CIRCA asserted that the Coalition had launched a movement for the restoration of Manipur to its pre-merger political status with the belief that this can resolve various issues facing indigenous people.

As a part of this movement, CIRCA has organised numerous events to commemorate key events in the history of Manipur between 1947 and 1949, he said.

After regaining its independence from the British, Manipur became the first to set up a democratic Government in South East Asia after establishing its own Constitution and holding elections, said Leishangthem Lamyanba.

Saying that the Indian leaders of the day pushed aside the elected Government, he pointed out that a Security Advisor was appointed in a similar way during the conflict, despite a popular Government ruling the State.

However, contemporary generations have forgotten that the British granted independence to Manipur before the same was granted to India.

This might be a significant reason for potential loss of historical information, he maintained.

He asserted that in order to resolve different issues plaguing Manipur, the State needs to be restored to its pre-merger political status or be accorded a similar special status.

Addressing the gathering, Thokchom Somorendro, president CIRCA maintained that the Indian Government continues to engage in manipulative tactics due to the lack of unity among the people.

In turn, such manipulations prevent the public from uniting.

As State legislators rely on Delhi's approval, the condition of Manipur has grown more serious day-by-day.

Under such circumstances.

CIRCA has consistently worked for restoration of the State's pre-merger political autonomy.

He urged people to stand firm as one to carry this movement forward.

The event was graced by Thokchom Somorendro, president, CIRCA; Longjam Ratan, vice-president, CIRCA; RK Tharaksana, president, Women Association for Socio Economic Development; Naorem Memma Leima, president, Iramdam Kanba Apunba Lup; Th Inaocha, president, Keibi Bot Makhong Meira Paibi; Sagolshem Nganbiton, president, Keibi Salam Meira Paibi and A Surendro, assistant secretary, Irabot Memorial Trust among others.

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