Take a stand: Lokeshwar to BJP MLAs
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 26 2025: Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar (Khundrakpam AC) has urged BJP legislators to take their own independent stand and stop waiting for directives from the Centre, especially when the Central forces have even restricted the use of the word 'Manipur'.

The incident he referred to occurred on May 20 at Gwaltabi, when personnel of 4th Mahar Regiment personnel stopped a Manipur State Transport bus carrying journalists enroute to Ukhrul for the Shirui Lily Festival's inauguration, demanding that the word 'Manipur' on the bus be concealed.

Addressing the valedictory function of 3rd YLL Trophy at Khundrakpam Mayai Leikai yesterday as chief guest, Lokeshwar stated that the Gwaltabi incident is a serious matter that warrants utmost attention and urged the public to remain vigilant.

Lokeshwar asked why BJP MLAs and the parties supporting them are still silent when a bus with 'Manipur' signage was barred from moving within the State's territory.

Saying that the BJP is in power at the Centre and Manipur is under President's Rule, being administered by the Centre, he added that the reason for asking journalists, who were heading to cover the Shirui Lily Festival organized by the Government, to conceal the Manipur signage at Gwaltabi must be investigated.

This isn't the time for BJP legislators who are working towards forming a popular Government to be in a 'yes sir' mode with the Centre, he said and added that Congress is prepared to knock on the Governor's door to safeguard Manipur even with just five MLAs, provided the BJP MLAs are on board.

Saying that Congress has limited power as a party with just five MLAs, Lokeshwar appealed to BJP legislators and their supporters to stand up and make it clear to the Centre that Manipur's name cannot be disrespected.

Lokeshwar also said that Congress MLAs are ready to resign alongside BJP legislators if they agree to do so collectively, in the larger interest of the State.

Expressing concern over Manipur's uncertain future, he stressed that the motherland's interests should be the top priority.

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