The women vendors of Khwairamband Keithel, widely known as the Keithel Imas, have raised strong objections over what they suspect to be a hidden agenda by the Governor of Manipur aimed at dividing the state. Their statement follows a controversial incident in which a media team, traveling in a Manipur State Transport bus to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul, was halted by security forces.
The Keithel Ima leaders condemned the actions of the security personnel, demanding immediate accountability for obstructing media coverage of a state-sponsored event. They questioned the motive behind the instruction given to the journalists to hide the words “Manipur State Transport” printed on the bus, which was officially arranged by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).
According to reports, the incident took place at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East district, where troops from the Mahar Regiment allegedly asked the media team to conceal the bus’s state identity. The unexpected directive caused confusion and delays, leading the journalists to abandon their assignment and return to Imphal after failed negotiations.
The Keithel Imas voiced concern that such actions by central forces, especially during an official event, reflect a larger disregard for Manipur’s statehood and administrative dignity.
They demanded that the authorities take swift action against the personnel involved and clarify whether such orders were sanctioned by higher authorities.
Stating that the media must be allowed to function freely and without intimidation, the women leaders reiterated their firm stand against any attempt—covert or overt—to tamper with Manipur’s territorial integrity and democratic rights.