Imphal: In a poignant display of solidarity and protest against the enduring conflict in Manipur, seven Meira Paibis from Awang Sekmai, Imphal East, shaved their heads on Friday, May 3, 2024, marking the anniversary of the violence that erupted last year.
The act not only symbolised their resentment towards the prolonged strife but also served as a tribute to the victims of the violence.
The seven brave women are identified as Ch Sopita Devi, Kh Inaobi Devi, M Shanti Devi, M Ibenou Devi, Kh Sobita Devi, Th Nanao Devi, and Kh Premlata Devi.
Following the symbolic gesture, the women embarked on a cycle rally from Sekmai to the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal, advocating for the protection of indigenous people and the territorial integrity of the state.
Their rally, joined by numerous supporters, echoed calls for peace and unity, essential for healing the torn fabric of Manipur.
Simultaneously, Meiteis living across the globe, spanning from Taiwan and South Korea to Thailand, the Middle East, California, Australia, and London, expressed solidarity on the anniversary of the violence.
They demanded justice and restoration of normalcy in their homeland, urging the Indian government to intervene and safeguard the fundamental rights of indigenous communities.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
During the global sit-in-protest, the Meitei diaspora also urged the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify infiltrators in the state.
The violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, has deeply divided Manipur, leaving thousands internally displaced as their homes and properties were ravaged or lost in the crisis.
Also Read | Armed robbers loot Rs 20 lakh from SBI branch in Churachandpur