Imphal: Transgender cyclist and social activist Malem Thongam returned to Imphal on Friday after completing a 77-day nationwide peace cycle rally, receiving a warm welcome from civil society organisations and supporters.
Malem was received by members of the All Manipur Nupi Association (AMANA), Meira Paibi groups, and other civil society organisations at Kangla before proceeding to Ima Keithel, where a reception programme was held in her honour.
She had begun her nationwide cycle rally from Delhi on October 2, with the objective of spreading the message of peace and unity. During the course of her journey, Malem cycled through five states—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam and Nagaland—before entering Manipur.
Inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, the peace ride took Malem across multiple regions where she interacted with local communities, listened to personal accounts of loss, and appealed for harmony and coexistence. Her mission gained added significance amid the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, which has persisted since May 3, 2023. The conflict, following clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, has claimed nearly 300 lives and displaced thousands.
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Earlier, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), a Kangpokpi-based organisation, had objected to Malem’s proposed route through Kangpokpi district. Following reports of threats, security personnel escorted her to Sekmai Police Station to ensure her safety.
On Friday morning, Malem resumed her journey accompanied by five women cyclists and completed the final leg of the ride, reaching Imphal in the afternoon. A large gathering welcomed her near Kangla Fort, turning the moment into a symbolic display of hope, solidarity, and prayers amid the state’s prevailing unrest.
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