Manipur I-Day: PPCM seeks GoI clarity on indigenes
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 14 2025: The Protection and Preservation Committee, Manipur (PPCM) on Thursday celebrated the 78th Manipur Independence Day with a call to the Government of India to clarify whether it will work in the interest of the indigenous people or prioritise immigrants from countries such as Myanmar.

The celebration was held at the PPCM's Wahengbam Leikai office by hoisting of the flag bearing symbol of Ibudhou Pakhangba.

The event was led by PPCM convenor Pheiroijam Nando Luwang, convenor (organisation) Kshetrimayum Somorendro and convenor (ethnic) Laikhuram Jayanta.

Addressing the gathering, Nando Luwang said that the Manipur left by ancestors who lived freely has become a land filled with upheaval and unrest.

Manipur I-Day: PPCM seeks GoI clarity on indigenes

He said that the indigenous people of the state are now reduced to struggling for basic needs, while democracy in Manipur has little meaning despite India's global reputation as the world's largest democracy.

Even if the Manipuri people, raise voice that they are not living freely but are living under oppression, harsh punishments is imminent under the laws of the Government of India, he said, adding that many laws implemented in Manipur are not applied in a fair manner.

Nando Luwang further said that people have harboured signs of a desire for independence lately even though they cannot express this sentiment openly.

Amid this situation, people now want to know whether the Government of India will work in the interest of the indigenous people or stand in favour of those entered into the state from foreign countries like Myanmar.

He added that the widespread celebration of Manipur Independence Day is not merely to recall history but an indirect expression of the fire burning in the hearts of many people.

He urged the Centre to work seriously in the interest of Manipur's indigenous population, warning that otherwise, "the people of Manipur may cross the limit of their tolerance and an untoward situation may arise".

Under PPCM's supervision, clubs and organisations across Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts also hoisted the Ibudhou Pakhangba flag.

These included Western Youth Club at Poiroukhongjil, Youth Guidance Club at Kongba, Friends Union Club at Khurai Konsam Leikai, UCCAN office at Yumnam Khunou, United Club at Lairikyengbam Leikai Salam Leirak, PYPC at Pungdongbam, as well as areas under SLUCO, UCO, RUCO, KHAMUCO, STUCO, and in Sugnu, Korsantabi Tangjeng, Kakching Khunou, Waikhong, Lamjao, Wabagai, Hiyanglam, Moirang, Phougakchao Ikhai, Kumbi, Wangoo, Bishnupur and Nambol.

Flags were also hoisted in various parts of Thoubal district as part of the celebrations.