Republic Day celebrations in Manipur defied militant calls for a shutdown, with citizens turning out in large numbers to honor India’s sovereignty. The state witnessed smooth observance of the day, despite threats from groups like the UNLF and PLA, showcasing the public’s commitment to unity and peace.
BY PC Bureau
Manipur celebrated its Republic Day on January 26, 2025, choosing to stand firm against calls for a boycott and shutdown issued by several militant groups. Despite the ongoing unrest in the state and repeated threats of violence, the people of Manipur came together in solidarity to honor India’s national day, refusing to be swayed by the demands of insurgent factions like the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), who had called for a complete shutdown of the state.
The Flag Unfurling Ceremony:
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the official Republic Day celebrations at Kangla Fort, where he unfurled the Tricolor, symbolizing India’s sovereignty and unity. The ceremony was attended by a large number of government officials, schoolchildren, and local residents. Chief Minister Biren Singh was among those present. .
On the 76th Republic Day, Hon’ble Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, unfurled the National Flag at Raj Bhavan and Kangla Fort, leading the celebrations with pride. The Governor inspected the Guard of Honour, pic.twitter.com/lwKOVlMn5A
— RAJ BHAVAN MANIPUR (@RajBhavManipur) January 26, 2025
The Governor’s salute to the national flag was met with cheers and applause, affirming the people’s resolve to uphold the values of the Indian Republic. The national anthem, sung by schoolchildren and members of various local groups, echoed through the area, marking the beginning of the day’s festivities.
The customary parade was led by Superintendent of Police Laishram Sarita Devi, a celebrated boxer. The parade started from the 1st Manipur Rifle parade ground, passed through Kangla, and proceeded towards Khuyathong before culminating back at its starting point. Despite the ongoing insurgency, the parade proceeded smoothly, demonstrating that Manipur’s people were resolute in their commitment to national unity. Local leaders, students, and cultural troupes participated enthusiastically, offering a stark contrast to the militant groups’ efforts to undermine the Republic Day celebrations.
Boycott and Shutdown Calls:
The UNLF, PLA, and other insurgent groups operating in the region had urged the people of Manipur to observe the day as a “black day” to protest against India’s presence in the state, which they term as “occupation.” These groups, which have long fought for independence or greater autonomy for Manipur, issued strict calls for a boycott of the Republic Day celebrations and demanded that businesses, public institutions, and transportation services remain closed. Their intention was to disrupt the Republic Day observances and challenge the authority of the Indian government.
On this 76th Republic Day, we celebrate the unity, strength, and resilience of our great nation, India. As we reflect on our journey, let us honor the vision of our founders and cherish the values enshrined in our Constitution.
A special tribute to the brave… https://t.co/7uDJgqFb17 pic.twitter.com/ghrrequu38
— Diana// ꯗꯤꯑꯅꯥ (@diana_warep) January 26, 2025
Defying the Calls:
However, the people of Manipur defied these militant calls with resilience and patriotism. The streets of Imphal, the state capital, saw both defiance and enthusiasm as citizens turned out for the official celebrations, despite the threats. In contrast to the demands of the militant groups, many local residents displayed their national pride by participating in the Republic Day events, such as the flag hoisting and the parade.
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While some areas saw fewer people on the streets due to fear of violence, the majority of the population chose to show their commitment to India’s unity and sovereignty by taking part in the celebrations. Shops and businesses in several parts of Imphal and other towns remained open, and people were seen gathering for the flag hoisting ceremony at Kangla Fort, a historic site in the state, where the national flag was unfurled in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Manipur Mounted Police and The Royal Pony Guard.#ThisIsManipur Happy #Republic Day !#Kangla#RepublicDayIndia #RepublicDayParade2025 pic.twitter.com/1nOCx0T9N4
— Lazarus (@Meitei_Lazarus4) January 26, 2025
The public’s decision to ignore the militant calls for a boycott and shutdown sent a clear message of defiance. The militants had hoped to instill fear and suppress the observance of Republic Day, but the people of Manipur refused to be cowed by violence and threats. Instead, they chose to stand tall in their pride for India and its democratic ideals.
The Republic Day celebrations in Manipur were a powerful symbol of resilience. In the face of militant opposition, the state’s citizens stood strong, refusing to give in to the calls for a boycott and shutdown. The defiance shown by the people not only highlighted their patriotism but also reaffirmed their desire for peace and unity. Despite the ongoing insurgency and ethnic divisions, the celebration of Republic Day in Manipur stood as a testament to the determination of its people to remain a part of India, undeterred by the forces seeking to tear the region apart.
