Ready to take up legal action: Mani
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 25 2025: Former acting Chairperson of Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) Khaidem Mani has stated that he is prepared to initiate a legal course of action seeking judicial enquiry into the highly controversial Gwaltabi incident in which personnel of the 4th Mahar Regiment ordered the removal of "Manipur" inscribed on a State Transport bus heading to Ukhrul on May 20.Speaking to the media at his residence at Lalambung today, he said that the Mahar Regiment's conduct was a challenge to Manipur's integrity and identity, and an insult to its people.

He likened the restriction to travelling with 'Manipur' signage to forcing residents to conceal their identity at home.

Kh Mani asserted that Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla must tender an apology and that action must be initiated against the Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, and Director General of Police.

He also questioned if the inquiry committee set up to investigate the Gwaltabi incident is placed to deliver justice.

How can IAS officers of the rank of Commissioner and Secretary rank impartially investigate their seniors and conduct a truthful probe, he asked.

The two-member committee formed by the Government to probe the Gwaltabi incident comprises Commissioner (Home) N Ashok Kumar and Secretary (IT) Th Kirankumar Singh.

The truth will only emerge when the investigation is conducted under the supervision of the Supreme Court or the High Court, or by a Judicial Committee under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, he reasoned.

Saying that mere condemnation of the defence personnel's conduct won't yield results, he emphasised the need for a massive, non-violent mass uprising in Manipur, one that would surpass the intensity of the June 18, 2001, to protect the State's interests.

Kh Mani also criticized the ruling MLAs, saying their inaction in the face of threats to Manipur's identity was very wrong.

He urged the MLAs to either form a stable Government or step down if they couldn't, instead of relying on the Centre's instructions.

The legal fraternity also has a significant role to play in safeguarding Manipur, he added.

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