IDS deliberates on Gwaltabi incident
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 29 2025: The Core Committee of the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), Manipur in its two sittings presided over by Prof N Mohendro Singh, chairman, IDS, deliberated on the possible ramifications of the unfortunate incident that took place at Gwaltabi on May 20, 2025.Notably, on May 20, journalists, travelling in a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus to cover the Shirui Lily Festival's opening ceremony in Ukhrul were halted at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East district by Central Security Forces and instructed to conceal the words "Manipur" displayed on the vehicle.

As per a release issued by IDS, the deliberation dwelt on the deeper implications of the Gwaltabi incident such as- President's Rule is expected to respect all fundamental mandates enshrined in the constitution of India; The occupants of the bus were members of the media, which is the fourth pillar of democracy; The transport was officially arranged by the State Government and the bus belonged to the State Transport Department; How far a military check post has been empowered to stop any movement irrespective of the standard of importance and necessity?; Disgrace and humiliation have psychological impact; Impact of the incident on the National policy for emotional integration.

The IDS also highlighted that the behavior of the security personnel reflects the growing gap between national policy of emotional integration and the abject ground reality.

"The action by the armed personnel of the Mahar Regiment at the check post evidently speaks of the silent aberration and 'deficit of understanding' about the cardinal framework of national approach to strengthening the regional sentiments as prerequisite of national unity", it added.

"We are of the view that the exemplary reaction of the authority concerned to the highly uneasy eventuality may positively go a long way of plugging the faulty lines to create a new chapter of Peaceful Resurgence (PR) under President Rule (PR) in the State.

In fact, transparency and accountability normally go together to enrich the cardinal principle of justice", said IDS .

Furthermore, the IDS expressed hope that the Governor will take necessary measures to bring the administration on track and promote understanding & good will between the Government and the people of Manipur.

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