KAPECON protests Gwaltabi incident
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 31 2025: Denouncing the forced removal of the word "Manipur" from a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus by central security personnel at Gwaltabi, Kanglei Peoples' Federation Manipur (KAPECON) staged a sit-in demonstrations at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai Community Hall on Saturday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the sit-in, KAPECON convenor Keithellakpam London strongly criticised the Government's handling of the Gwaltabi incident, in which journalists, travelling in a MST bus arranged by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), were halted at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East district and instructed to conceal the words "Manipur" displayed on the vehicle.

He asserted that the unprecedented directive, which undermined the State's identity and obstructed press freedom, prompted the journalists to abandon their assignment and return to Imphal in protest.

Expressing deep concern over the delay in fixing accountability even after 10 days, he called on the Government to act with urgency and expedite the inquiry to ensure accountability & restore public confidence.

Keithellakpam London also urged the Government to give a clear official explanation on the matter and take immediate action against those responsible.

Placards with the writings such as, "Why India Government is silent?", "Governor speak up", "Stop divide and rule policy", etc were displayed at the sit-in.

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