COCOMI Declares Statewide Mass Agitation Over ‘Insult’ to Manipur’s Identity
News Summary
On May 20, 2025, during the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district, security personnel allegedly instructed the removal of the word “Manipur” from a state transport bus ferrying journalists. This act sparked widespread outrage among the Meitei community, leading the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) to call for a 48-hour statewide bandh. The protest disrupted normal life across five districts, with businesses, educational institutions, and public transport coming to a halt. COCOMI demanded a public apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the resignation of key officials, viewing the incident as an affront to Manipur’s cultural and historical identity.
In-Depth Analysis: The Struggle to Preserve Manipur’s Identity
Understanding the Incident
The controversy began when journalists traveling to the Shirui Lily Festival were stopped at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East district. Security personnel allegedly instructed them to conceal the word “Manipur” on their bus, citing security concerns. This directive was perceived as an affront to the state’s identity, leading to immediate backlash from civil society organizations and the media.
COCOMI’s Response
COCOMI, a coalition of Meitei civil society organizations, swiftly condemned the act. They viewed it as a deliberate attempt to undermine Manipur’s territorial integrity and cultural heritage. In protest, COCOMI announced a 48-hour statewide bandh, demanding
- A public apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
- Resignation of the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Security Advisor.
- Immediate withdrawal of President’s Rule and restoration of a popular government.
COCOMI’s spokesperson, Khuraijam Athouba, emphasized that the act was not just an insult but a challenge to the people and identity of the state.
Impact of the Bandh
The bandh significantly disrupted daily life in the Imphal Valley. Businesses, educational institutions, and government offices remained closed. Public transportation was halted, and streets were deserted. Women activists, known as Meira Paibis, organized sit-in protests, and torch rallies were held to express dissent.
Government’s Reaction
In response to the escalating tensions, Governor Bhalla formed a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the incident. The committee, comprising Home Commissioner N Ashok Kumar and IT Secretary Th Kirankumar Singh, was tasked with submitting its findings within 15 days.
However, COCOMI expressed skepticism about the committee’s impartiality, stating that they had no trust in the probe panel.
Broader Implications
This incident is not isolated but reflects the underlying ethnic tensions in Manipur. The state has witnessed prolonged unrest between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills. COCOMI’s actions underscore the Meitei community’s demand for recognition and respect for their cultural identity
The removal of the state’s name from a government vehicle, especially during a cultural festival, is symbolic of the perceived erosion of the Meitei identity. It highlights the community’s fears of marginalization and the dilution of their cultural heritage.
Calls for Restoration of Local Governance
COCOMI has also called for the immediate withdrawal of President’s Rule, which was imposed in February 2025 after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. They argue that only a locally elected government can truly understand and uphold the values and significance of Manipur’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What triggered the 48-hour bandh in Manipur?
The bandh was triggered by an incident where security personnel allegedly instructed the removal of the word “Manipur” from a state transport bus during the Shirui Lily Festival, which was perceived as an insult to the state’s identity.
Q2: Who is COCOMI?
COCOMI (Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity) is a coalition of Meitei civil society organizations formed to preserve the territorial integrity and cultural identity of Manipur.
Q3: What were the main demands of COCOMI during the protest?
COCOMI demanded a public apology from the Governor, resignation of key officials, and the immediate withdrawal of President’s Rule to restore local governance.
Q4: How did the bandh affect daily life in Manipur?
The bandh led to the closure of businesses, educational institutions, and government offices. Public transportation was halted, and various protests were organized across the state.
Q5: What is the significance of the Shirui Lily Festival?
The Shirui Lily Festival is a cultural event held in Ukhrul district to celebrate the state flower, the Shirui Lily. It symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of Manipur.
