Reclaiming the spirit of Hunger Marchers’ Day amidst crisis

Hunger Marchers’ Day stands as a powerful symbol of resistance and unity in the history of Manipur, commemorating the people’s movement against the artificial scarcity of rice in the late 1960s. This day, steeped in the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the cause of the state, has long been a solemn reminder of the strength of collective action and the enduring spirit of the Manipuri people. However, in recent years, the essence of this day has been distorted, and the media’s ability to report on its true significance has been compromised by political pressures and divisions.
The late 1960s was a turbulent period for Manipur, marked by widespread discontent over the artificial scarcity of rice, a staple food in the state. This crisis triggered a massive public outcry, culminating in what is now known as Hunger Marchers’ Day. The people of Manipur, led by students and activists, rose up against the injustice, demanding their basic right to food. In the process, the All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) was born, becoming a beacon of youth activism and a symbol of the state’s resilience.
For decades, Hunger Marchers’ Day was observed with deep reverence, a day to remember those who laid down their lives for the welfare of the people. The significance of the movement and the birth of AMSU were inseparable from the narrative of this day. The observance served as a reminder of the power of unity and the need to remain vigilant against any form of injustice. However, in recent times, political differences have led to a troubling development: the inability of the media to mention the name of the All Manipur Students’ Union in their reports on Hunger Marchers’ Day.
This restriction is not just an infringement on the freedom of the press; it is an erasure of history. The media’s role is to inform the public, to present the truth, and to preserve the memory of important events. When journalists are barred from reporting the full story of Hunger Marchers’ Day, including the pivotal role played by AMSU, the very essence of the day is lost. The narrative becomes incomplete, and future generations are deprived of understanding the true significance of this historic event.
The current crisis in Manipur only underscores the urgent need for unity and transparency. The state is grappling with profound challenges that demand collective action and a return to the spirit of solidarity that characterized the Hunger Marchers’ movement. Yet, the inability of the media to report freely on this day reflects a deeper issue: the politicization of history and the suppression of voices that are deemed inconvenient or threatening to certain interests.
In times of crisis, the importance of a free and independent press cannot be overstated. The media serves as the eyes and ears of the public, holding those in power accountable and ensuring that the truth is not obscured by political agendas. When the media is silenced, or when journalists are forced to censor themselves, the entire society suffers. The distortion of Hunger Marchers’ Day is a stark example of how political pressures can undermine the very fabric of a society’s collective memory.
It is time for those involved in the issue to reconsider their political stance and to recognize the importance of protecting the freedom of the press. This is not just about ensuring that journalists can do their jobs without interference; it is about preserving the integrity of Manipur’s history and ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought for the state are not forgotten. The people must demand that the full story of Hunger Marchers’ Day be told, without omissions or distortions.
Moreover, the current crisis in Manipur should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and the media. The challenges facing the state require a united front, one that transcends political divisions and focuses on the common good. The spirit of Hunger Marchers’ Day—a spirit of resistance, unity, and sacrifice—must be reclaimed and harnessed to address the pressing issues of today.
Hunger Marchers’ Day is more than just a commemoration; it is a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of standing up against injustice. The media must be allowed to report freely on this day, to tell the full story of the movement and the birth of AMSU, and to preserve the memory of those who sacrificed for the cause of Manipur. It is only by doing so that the true essence of Hunger Marchers’ Day can be honored, and the spirit of unity can be rekindled in the face of the current crisis.