Massive “Save Manipur” Rally Highlights Public Demand for Peace and Stability
Thousands of people from different communities took to the streets of Imphal to participate in a large “Save Manipur” rally, sending a strong message for unity and peace amid the state’s prolonged ethnic crisis. The march, organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, reflected growing public frustration over continued violence, displacement, and political uncertainty.
The rally came at a time when Manipur remains deeply affected by ethnic clashes that began on May 3, 2023, and has been under President’s Rule since February 2025.
Rally Route and Participation
The march began at Tiddim Ground and concluded at Thau Ground in Imphal, covering a long stretch of the city. Participants included men, women, youth groups, social organisations, and elders from multiple communities. Many carried placards calling for peace, restoration of normal life, and protection of Manipur’s territorial integrity.
Chanting slogans and holding banners, rallygoers appealed to both the state and central leadership to take decisive steps to end the violence and rebuild trust between communities.
Background: Ethnic Violence That Shook Manipur
The ongoing crisis in Manipur erupted in May 2023 following ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. What initially began as local unrest quickly escalated into widespread violence across several districts.
According to official and civil society estimates:
- At least 260 people have lost their lives
- More than 60,000 residents have been displaced
- Thousands of homes, places of worship, and public properties have been damaged or destroyed
Large numbers of families continue to live in relief camps, struggling with uncertainty, limited resources, and trauma caused by prolonged displacement.
Why President’s Rule Was Imposed
The continuation of violence and political instability eventually led to the imposition of President’s Rule in February 2025. Under this system, the state government functions directly under the authority of the President of India through the Governor.
While President’s Rule was intended to restore law and order, many citizens believe that peace on the ground remains fragile and that deeper political and social solutions are urgently needed.
Key Demands Raised During the Rally
During the rally, organisers and participants passed several resolutions highlighting their main demands. These demands focused on security, rehabilitation, and long-term stability.
- Call to End Agreements With Armed Groups
One of the strongest demands was the withdrawal of agreements and pacts with Kuki militant groups. Protesters argued that such arrangements have failed to bring peace and instead deepened mistrust among communities.
- Rehabilitation of Displaced Families
Rally leaders stressed the urgent need for proper rehabilitation of displaced people, including safe return to their homes, financial support, housing reconstruction, and access to education and healthcare.
- Demand for National Register of Citizens (NRC)
Another major demand was the implementation of a National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur. Supporters believe it would help address concerns related to illegal migration and demographic imbalance, which they see as one of the root causes of unrest.
- Action Against Cross-Border Networks
Protesters also called for strict action against cross-border networks, claiming that illegal movement of arms and people across international borders has worsened the security situation in the state.
- Emphasis on Manipur’s Unity and Territorial Integrity
A central theme of the rally was the protection of Manipur’s territorial integrity. Speakers repeatedly stressed that the state should remain united and warned against any attempt to divide it on ethnic or administrative lines.
This message directly contrasts with demands from some Kuki groups who are seeking separate administrative arrangements. Rally organisers said such demands risk further fragmenting society and delaying peace.
Multi-Ethnic Participation Shows Shared Concern
Despite deep divisions, the rally saw participation from people belonging to different ethnic backgrounds. Organisers highlighted this as proof that many citizens still believe in coexistence and peaceful resolution.
Participants said the rally was not against any single community but against violence, lawlessness, and political indecision that have harmed ordinary people the most.
Life in Relief Camps: A Continuing Crisis
Even after nearly two years of unrest, tens of thousands of displaced people remain in relief camps across Manipur. Many families have lost livelihoods, access to farmland, and normal schooling for their children.
Rally speakers urged authorities to move beyond temporary relief and focus on long-term rehabilitation, mental health support, and economic recovery for affected families.
Public Pressure on Government and Centre
The scale of the rally underlines rising public pressure on both the state administration under President’s Rule and the central government. Protesters demanded transparent communication, firm security measures, and a clear roadmap for peace.
Civil society groups said that without meaningful dialogue and accountability, the cycle of violence and fear could continue.
Political and Social Impact of the Rally
Observers believe the “Save Manipur” rally could influence future policy discussions on the state’s governance and conflict resolution. It highlights that public patience is wearing thin and that symbolic measures alone will not be enough.
The rally also reflects how deeply the crisis has affected daily life, identity, and trust between communities.
Dialogue or Division
Manipur now stands at a critical crossroads. While protests like the Imphal rally show strong public desire for unity and peace, the deep-rooted issues behind the conflict remain unresolved.
Experts say lasting peace will require:
- Inclusive dialogue involving all communities
- Strong and neutral law enforcement
- Political clarity on governance and administration
- Economic and social rehabilitation for victims
Without these steps, tensions may continue to surface despite security measures.
A Loud Cry for Peace From the Streets of Imphal
The massive march in Imphal was more than just a protest it was a collective cry from citizens who want safety, dignity, and a future free from fear. As Manipur continues under President’s Rule, the voices raised during the “Save Manipur” rally serve as a reminder that peace cannot be delayed indefinitely.
Whether these demands translate into concrete action will determine not only Manipur’s immediate stability but also the long-term unity of one of India’s most sensitive border states.
