Imphal, In response to the persistent violence in Manipur, women protestors organized a torch rally in Imphal, marching towards Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s official residence to voice their concerns.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the rally was prompted by the recent killing of two Indian forces’ personnel by unidentified gunmen in Moreh, a border town near the India–Myanmar border in Tengnoupal district. The protestors, known as Meira Paibi (women torchbearers), assembled from various areas, including Malom, Keishampat, and Kwakeithel, and chanted slogans while marching towards the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. Police intervention prevented them from entering the secretariat. This demonstration highlights the ongoing ethnic conflict between Valley-majority Meiteis (Hindus) and hill-majority Kukis (Christians) that began on May 3 last year, leading to over 200 deaths and the displacement of thousands.