Cyclist Malem Thongam submits memorandum seeking free movement across Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, June 03 2026: Marking World Bicycle Day, social activist and cyclist Malem Thongam on Wednesday submitted a memorandum addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah through the Deputy Commissioner of Bishnupur, seeking intervention to ensure that cyclists in Manipur can travel freely across the State.

Speaking to the media, Malem expressed disappointment that while cyclists in many parts of the world are able to move freely, cyclists in Manipur continue to face restrictions within their own State.

She remarked that World Bicycle Day was being observed with a sense of sorrow in Manipur due to the prevailing situation.

Malem stated that on May 5 this year, she had submitted requests to the Chief Minister and the Governor of Manipur seeking permission and support for a "Cycling for Manipur Peace Journey." However, she alleged that two Kuki organisations, namely the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) and the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), prevented her from entering the two districts during the proposed journey.

She urged the Manipur Government to take legal action against organisations that allegedly hinder efforts aimed at promoting peace and harmony in the State.

She further claimed that, following the lack of response from the State Government, appeals had also been made to the Supreme Court and the High Court of Manipur to take up a suo moto on the matter.

She said the memorandum was intended to bring the issue to the attention of the Government of India.

Although she could not personally meet the Deputy Commissioner of Bishnupur, she submitted the memorandum to the Additional Deputy Commissioner.

The memorandum reportedly seeks action against organisations alleged to have obstructed her peace cycling initiative and urges the Union Home Minister to examine the matter.

Although she was unable to meet the Deputy Commissioner of Bishnupur personally on Wednesday, she submitted the memorandum through the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADM).

Accompanying her during the submission of the memorandum, Thawai Meerel Convenor Paonam Sanahanbi alleged that Malem Thongam's cycling campaign, which carried the message of peace and harmony for Manipur, had travelled through various states of the country without facing any restrictions.

However, she claimed that when Malem attempted to enter Churachandpur district on May 27 as part of the peace journey, security personnel stationed at Tronglaobi stopped the rally from proceeding.

Sanahanbi further alleged that Malem was subsequently escorted by police personnel and taken back to her residence.

She also claimed that Malem was prevented from proceeding towards Churachandpur on another occasion after being stopped at Phougakchao Ikhai.

Criticising the authorities, Sanahanbi stated that if the Government is unable to effectively address the activities of organisations that obstruct free movement and peace initiatives, as well as concerns relating to illegal immigration from Myanmar, those responsible should consider stepping down from their positions.

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