Rally staged
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 27 2025: A protest rally was taken out by women from Khurai to the Imphal East DC office today, seeking an apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla regarding the Gwaltabi incident when a bus was denied passage to Ukhrul on May 20 for having Manipur signage on its windshield.

The protesters, comprising volunteers from Khurai Apunba Meira Paibi Lup and vendors from Lamlong Keithel, gathered at Khurai Lamlong and began their march along Ayangpalli Road, proceeding towards the DC office located at Porompat.

The protesters chanted slogans such as "The Governor must tender a public apology", "Chief Secretary, DGP and Security Advisor must resign" and "Long Live Manipur" among others.

The protesters were monitored by Imphal East police from Lamlong Keithel.

However, their march was halted at Porompat Traffic Crossing by additional security personnel, including police and Rapid Action Force (RAF), who prevented them from proceeding further.

Following a brief altercation, the security personnel permitted a few protesters to proceed to the DC office.

It may be mentioned that Mahar Regiment personnel at Gwaltabi, had on May 20, directed a Manipur State Transport bus, which was carrying journalists to the Shirui Lily Festival, to cover up the word "Manipur" on the vehicle.

The journalists eventually returned to Imphal in hired private vehicles without covering the festival.

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