New Delhi: Hundreds of students from Northeast India gathered to call on Central and State Governments to swiftly restore peace in Manipur and facilitate the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs). They highlighted the profound impact of the 18-month crisis on the youth of Manipur.
The peaceful protest, titled “Save Manipur—No Compromise on Manipur’s Territorial Integrity,” was organized by the Manipur Innovative Youth Organisation (MAIYOND) and United Kakching Students (UNIKAS) in Delhi. It echoed the voices from Manipur advocating for peace, unity, and the safeguarding of the region’s territorial and administrative integrity. Members of the North East Students Society of Delhi University joined in solidarity.
A student representative expressed concern, stating, “Our youth are the pillars of this nation, and their future is at stake,” while criticizing government inaction that has left over 60,000 IDPs in poor conditions.
Historian and geopolitical analyst Abhijit Chavda emphasized the need for peace, urging indigenous communities to unite and overcome historical divisions. “Anti-national sentiments must not be allowed to thrive, as the interests of India and Manipur’s indigenous communities are aligned,” he stated.
Retired Col. Kishore Chand affirmed that government agencies are working diligently to address the challenges faced by IDPs and victims of violence, expressing confidence in achieving justice. Other speakers included retired Col. Shanti Kumar Sapam, social activists Elizabeth Kh. and Rajshree Kumari, and Dr. M. Ojit Kumar Singh from Delhi University.
MAIYOND and UNIKAS reiterated their belief that any form of division—be it territorial or ideological—undermines the societal fabric of Manipur.
