Chanura Marup of the Manipur People’s Party (MPP) today organised a one-day public discourse on the theme “Women’s Role in Achieving Good Governance” at G.M. Hall, Imphal, calling for stronger women’s participation in politics and a revival of MPP’s role in safeguarding Manipur’s political identity.
Presiding over the event, Ningthoujam (O) Menaka Leima, President of Chanura Marup, MPP, questioned the BJP’s governance in Manipur. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent announcement of two separate development packages—one for Churachandpur and another for Kangla—she asked whether this reflected a divided policy for the state. She asserted that Manipur is one and must not be fragmented, and urged women to rally behind MPP to restore the state’s dignity. She reminded the gathering that MPP, which had formed governments in 1972, 1974, and 1990, still holds the essence of Manipur’s political identity.
Former President of Uripok Nupi Apunba Lup (UNAL), Potshangbam (O) Joyshree Devi, welcomed the revival of Chanura Marup’s activities and stressed that women must provide direction and solutions during Manipur’s ongoing hardships. Social activist Jaya Khangembam described Manipur as a land rich in natural beauty but sidelined in India’s development, urging voters to strengthen MPP through women’s leadership.
Chief Guest Aribam Naotuneshwari Devi, Retired District and Session Judge, recalled that the creation of regional parties like MPP was meant to safeguard Manipur’s interests. She said the party’s 50-year-old legacy must be revitalised to protect Manipur’s dignity, while highlighting women’s historic role in shaping society.
Other speakers included Ningombam Shreema Devi, Assistant Professor at Nambol L. Sanoi College, who emphasised equality in power-sharing; Dr. Karam Kunjarani Devi, Retired Associate Professor, who said women’s participation is indispensable for nation-building; and Kshetri Tama Devi, Former Up-Adakshya of Imphal East Zilla Parishad, who called for renewed recognition of women’s sacrifices in Manipur’s struggles.
Noted artist Narendra Ningomba also presented a thought-provoking narration, which resonated with the audience by capturing the aspirations and challenges of the people.
The discourse, attended by women leaders and social workers across communities, concluded with a collective appeal for women to take the lead in strengthening good governance and reviving regional political identity through MPP.