ASUK calls for total shutdown across Manipur on Republic Day

The Alliance for Socialist Unity, Kangleipak (ASUK), has called for a total shutdown across Manipur on India’s Republic Day which falls on January 26. The organisation stated that the shutdown is intended to register protest against the observance of the day, which it described as symbolising the forced integration of Manipur into the Indian Union, while reiterating its demand for recognition of Manipur’s sovereign historical status.
In a press release the ASUK maintained that Manipur existed as a sovereign kingdom prior to 1949 under British paramountcy. The organisation referred to historical records, including the Cheitharol Kumbaba, and cited a statement made by then British Prime Minister Clement Attlee in 1947 to support its position. It further claimed that the Merger Agreement of 1949 was executed without proper ratification by the Manipur Legislative Assembly or the consent of the people through a plebiscite, leading to what it described as the annexation of Manipur on October 15, 1949, without democratic approval. ASUK also pointed out that Manipur had its own Constitution and an elected Assembly in 1947 before being reduced to a Part C state after integration.
The organisation stated that India’s Republic Day, which marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, has no relevance to what it termed Manipur’s original sovereignty and therefore should not be treated as a local celebration. In this context, it referred to remarks made by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1953 regarding the distinct status of the Northeast.
ASUK also linked its protest to contemporary developments, including ethnic violence in the state since 2023, and alleged discrimination against the Meitei community.
It claimed that integration into India has resulted in cultural erosion, displacement of people, and a failure to honour the terms and assurances associated with the merger.
ASUK announced that the shutdown would be observed from 6 am to 4 pm on January 26, urging the closure of shops, offices, markets, and suspension of transport services across the state. The call was issued by the Convener of ASUK’s Publicity Committee.