Need for a strong regional party stressed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 29 2026: Many citizens have underscored the urgent need for a strong regional political party in Manipur.

A three-day State level seminar cum public discourse on "Manipur's Pressing Challenges: Calling for a Regional Political Alternative" held at Loktak Lairembi Yakapung Chanura Leikol (opposite to NG Mani College), Khurai since May 27 concluded today.

Speaking at the seminar cum public discourse organised by the United Regional People's Platform (UREPP), senior Advocate Khaidem Mani asserted that Manipur can exist as a sovereign State under the Indian Constitution.

Need for a strong regional party stressed

He said that the State can exercise sovereign authority within its jurisdiction.

It's time for the rise of a strong regional political party in order to save Manipur, Khaidem Mani said.

Former UNLF Chairman RK Sanayaima alias Meghen said that all sections of people must study if Manipur has benefited anything from the Indian Constitution since January 1950 till date.

He said that the need for a regional political party is always there after Manipur came under India.

RK Sanayaima asserted that Manipur needs a regional political party which can protect the core interests of Manipur.

However, it will be far better not to form any regional political party if the candidates elected on its ticket should change colour and join other parties even before taking oath, he said.

Given the current state of affairs, Manipur needs a regional political party formed by individuals committed to saving the Nation who can amplify the people's voice and even go to jail in the interest of Manipur, he said.

Any such regional party should have a thorough knowledge of the history and geography of Manipur, and they should be able to identify with all the communities of the State, Sanayaima said.

The last day of the seminar cum public discourse was moderated by retired IAS Dr RK Nimai where six resource persons namely; Dr Noni Arambam, Dr K Indrakumar, Dr Malem Ningthouja, Dr Homen Thangjam, Dr L Malem Mangal and Dr Puyam Rakesh presented papers.

Presenting his observation, Dr RK Nimai said that the desire for a strong regional political party is growing among a large section of the people.

But no regional party will last long if the party does not have ideological rootedness and is dominated by individuals who are not committed.

Contractors started State Assembly elections from 1980's and individuals involved in drug cases started winning elections from 2000, he said.

He suggested establishment of a regional party based on a well-defined political ideology and a far-sighted vision.

If there should be a political alternative, the leaders should have ideological clarity and the party should be inclusive where hill people and plain people can work together, RK Nimai said.