Imphal: A coalition of five underground groups in Manipur issued a ban on commercial musical shows starting November 1. This restriction hits festivals, melas, and charity concerts at hotels. Traditional, cultural, and religious gatherings remain exempt from the new rules. The G-5 warned that violators will face punishment, though they did not detail the specific penalties.
The G-5 alliance includes the Kangleipak Communist Party, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup, the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Progressive), and the Koireng-led United National Liberation Front. Representatives H. Ibomcha, C. Lanngamba, L. Ibochouba, Ch. Malemnganba, and Ksh. Yoiheiba signed the directive.
The group claims the ongoing conflict, which ignited May 3, 2023, is a proxy war led by India. They allege the government uses Chin-Kuki armed groups to weaken indigenous communities. The coalition claims the violence serves the political agenda of the BJP and RSS to build an Akhand Bharat. They argue the fight transcends a simple Meitei versus Kuki-Zo rivalry.
Tensions remain high. The group highlighted a recent attack in the Nongshum-Khongbal Tangkhul area on the Imphal East-Kangpokpi border. Armed men opened fire on civilians gathering firewood. Two Meitei people died. Several others suffered injuries during the ambush.
The coalition views public celebration as tone-deaf during the current crisis. "The prevailing situation made large-scale celebrations and entertainment events inappropriate," the statement read. They urged indigenous groups to set aside differences and stand united against the ongoing violence.
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