Several banned militant groups in Manipur have declared a boycott of Independence Day celebrations on August 15, announcing a state-wide shutdown in protest against what they describe as the oppressive integration of Manipur into the Indian Union.
The call for a boycott has been spearheaded by the Coordination Committee (CorCom), an umbrella organization representing six banned insurgent groups, which has urged the people of Manipur to abstain from participating in any Independence Day activities.
In a statement released by CorCom, the organization announced a total shutdown in the state from 1:00 AM to 6:30 PM on August 15.
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The group accuses the Indian government of implementing repressive policies in Manipur, which they claim have led to persistent violence and instability in the region.
Adding to the call for a boycott, the Socialist Revolutionary Party (SOREPA) has also announced a general strike from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM on August 15, aligning with CorCom’s protest.
Furthermore, the Alliance for Socialist Unity Kangleipak (ASUK) has joined the movement, urging residents of Manipur to hoist black flags in place of the national tricolor, symbolically designating the day as a “black day” to express their dissent.
Security forces in Manipur are on high alert as Independence Day approaches, with concerns that the shutdown and protests could lead to disruptions or violence.
The state government has urged citizens to participate in the celebrations, emphasizing the importance of national unity and the progress made since independence.
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