Imphal, July 20: In an unprecedented show of unity and determination, more than 10,000 people gathered at Lamka Public Ground in Manipur for the “Rally for Separate Administration” on Thursday.

The participants, dressed in black, marched approximately 3 kilometers to reach Peace Ground in Tuibong, making it arguably the largest rally in the hill districts of Manipur, this year.

Carrying banners with powerful messages, including “Too much tribal blood has flowed, separation is the only solution,” “Rally for separate administration,” and “Central government, please recognize our separation from Manipur,” the crowd expressed their fervent demand for a distinct administrative entity.

Despite the rally commencing under a sunny sky, heavy rains poured down on the rally-goers as they marched towards Peace Ground. However, the inclement weather failed to dampen their spirits, and they continued their journey with unwavering determination, chanting slogans such as “We want total separation,” “Long live tribal unity,” “Biren government, down, down,” and “Arambai Tenggol, down, down.”

Upon reaching Peace Ground, the gathering was addressed by prominent leaders from the Indigenous Tribal Liberation Front (ITLF) and community leaders, who reiterated the significance of their cause. Local artists also contributed to the rally’s spirit by performing songs that resonated with the attendees.

The rally concluded with the submission of a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Lamka, intending to reach Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Manipur has been torn in ethnic strife between the majority valley-based Meitei people and hills residing tribal majority Kuki-Zo people since May 3, 2023. Heavy security, curfew and internet blackout continue in most parts of the state even after 70 days since the violence started. Over hundred people have been killed, hundreds injured and thousand displaced in the state, so far.

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