Imphal: The All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) observed its 61st Foundation Day in Imphal to honor students killed during the 1965 anti-scarcity movement. On August 27, 1965, students protested against food shortages allegedly caused by a government and trader conspiracy. Security forces opened fire inside the Chief Commissioner’s compound, killing Nabakumar, Nilamani, and Pramodini instantly. Laishram Chaobhal Singh died later on September 26. Laishram Mangi, Kumar, Budhi, and N Ibohal Singh suffered bullet wounds or injuries from a lathi-charge.
These deaths sparked the union's formation on August 28, 1965, at the home of Leihaothabam Saratchandra Sharma. Today, AMSU leaders Lukram Malangba and Bruce Pebam reiterated their firm stance: "No NRC, No Census." They argue that conducting a census before updating the National Register of Citizens risks granting citizenship to illegal migrants.
The union leadership condemned an ambush on the Imphal-Tamenglong Road that left four Naga civilians dead. Bruce Pebam blamed Kuki-Narco terrorists for the attack. He insisted that students cannot remain detached from the state's struggles. He demanded the government protect the Right to Life and Right to Education as the May 3, 2023, conflict continues to disrupt lives.
Separately, the United Peoples’ Front (UPF) celebrated its 28th anniversary at Lamyanba Shanglen. President Nongthombam Rupachandra reaffirmed the group's motto of Dignified Existence. The UPF also supports the "No NRC, No Census" campaign and the push for Just and Fair Delimitation. Rupachandra slammed state and central authorities for failing to end the violence or settle Internally Displaced Persons. The group vowed to continue opposing outsider settlements to protect the state's demographic future. COCOMI convener YK Dhiren and several other civil leaders attended the event.
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