Imphal: The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA) marked its 32nd Foundation Day on Monday at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal. The group held a two-minute silence to honor the fallen heroes of Kangleipak. The event focused on the organization's long-standing push for a peaceful and progressive society.
Secretary General Sanajaoba Nongthongbam delivered the keynote address. He traced the group's origins to the volatile climate of the early 1990s. IPSA officially formed on September 14, 1993, after three years of prep. Nongthongbam noted, "Kangleipak society has undergone significant changes in its social structure, economic system and political administration along with wider changes in the world."
The group’s history includes pushing for the Inner Line Permit System. In 1993, they gave a document to Keirao MLA Heidam Bidur, who moved a resolution in the state assembly on July 17. The organization also spent years documenting human rights abuses during the enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.
IPSA continues to influence public discourse through research and events. They hold an annual "Dark Day" on April 27 to remember the 1891 Anglo-Manipuri War. Their research efforts include a 2022 historical tour across Assam sites like Lakhipur, Cachar, Jaribon, Lala, and Hailakandi. Recently, they hosted a seminar on demographic imbalances at Manipur University on July 19, 2025.
Attendees included IPSA president Maibam Bisheshwor, Dr. T. Brajakumar of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, retired IAS officer Herekrishna Mangshatabam, Professor K. Indramani, and Y. Dilipkumar of the 14 CSOs Kangleipak. The group ended the day with a plea for unity among hill and valley communities.
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