The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), Kangleipak, observed its 32nd Foundation Day at the Manipur Press Club, Imphal, on Monday, reaffirming its commitment to building a peaceful, harmonious and progressive society.
The programme began with members observing a two-minute silence in remembrance of the heroes of Kangleipak.
Delivering the keynote address, IPSA Secretary General Sanajaoba Nongthongbam said Kangleipak society has undergone significant changes in its social structure, economic system and political administration along with wider changes in the world. He said like-minded individuals had come together in response to these developments and initiated various activities for the welfare and advancement of society.
Recalling the organisation’s history, Sanajaoba said the demand for implementation of the Inner Line Permit System (ILPS) was among the major issues concerning the indigenous people of Kangleipak. A document on the ILP system was submitted to then MLA of Keirao Assembly Constituency Heidam Bidur, who moved a resolution in the Manipur Legislative Assembly on July 17, 1993, seeking introduction of the ILP regime in the State.
He also recalled the period of armed conflict and enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, when allegations of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, torture and other human rights violations were reported. Many women, he said, suffered immense hardships following the loss of family members.
Various civil society initiatives, including those involving Meira Paibis, were subsequently undertaken to raise awareness about human rights violations. Sanajaoba said the need for a strong organisation to protect human rights and promote social development eventually led to the formation of IPSA.
Following several years of preparation and collective efforts beginning in 1990, IPSA was formally established on September 14, 1993. The organisation was founded with the objective of building a peaceful society free from oppression and promoting dignity, equality and mutual respect among all sections of society.
Since its inception, IPSA has organised programmes and seminars on the history, political status and future of Kangleipak. These included seminars at the State Guest House and IM Hall in 2010. In 2017, IPSA released the book FIRAL at Manipur University, dealing with unresolved political and historical questions concerning Kangleipak.
The organisation has also observed April 27 every year as “Dark Day”, marking what it describes as the loss of Kangleipak’s sovereignty following the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 and subsequent British occupation.
IPSA has undertaken historical research into the Anglo-Manipuri War and the displacement of Manipuri people following the conflict. A seven-member team also undertook the “Kanglei Puwari Khonggul Leeba” historical journey in Assam in November 2022, visiting places including Lakhipur, Cachar, Jaribon, Lala and Hailakandi.
In view of the prevailing situation in Manipur, IPSA organised a one-day academic discourse on “Demographic Imbalance in Manipur: Its Impact and Solution” at Manipur University on July 19, 2025.
On its 32nd Foundation Day, IPSA appealed to people living in the hills and valley, including all indigenous communities, to work together towards a peaceful, just and prosperous future for Kangleipak.
The foundation day programme was attended by Dr T. Brajakumar, Director, Department of Environment and Climate Change, IPSA president Maibam Bisheshwor, Herekrishna Mangshatabam retired IAS, Professor K. Indramani Dean School of Social Sciences Dhanamanjuri University and Y. Dilipkumar Chairman of the 14 CSOs Kangleipak and Consultative UCM & COCOMI, among others.
