Imphal: The All Manipur Students Union held its 61st Hunger Marchers Day on Thursday, August 27. It marked the 1965 deaths of student leaders Nongmeikakpam Promodini, Oinam Nabakumar, Laishram Chaobal, and Waikhom Nilamani. Security forces killed them inside the Chief Commissioner’s premises during a protest against artificial rice scarcity. The union formed the next day.
Events started with a morning invocation, a flag hoisting, and floral tributes at Pishum Chingamacha in Imphal West. A mass rally and public meeting followed. These gatherings recalled the 1965 agitation and current state challenges.
AMSU leaders tied today’s conflict to alleged illegal immigration. They demand the detection, deletion, and deportation of foreigners arriving after 1951. This push relies on government agreements from 1980 and 1994. Union president Bruce Pebam stated they reject Census activities until the National Register of Citizens is updated.
AMSU president Lukram Malangba Meitei warned of a fresh mass uprising if the government proceeds with the Census without first identifying illegal immigrants. He noted the government must address the resettlement of displaced people and restore peace first. Regarding the current climate, one AMSU executive member stated, "There will be no justice if census and delimitation are being carried out in the present scenario."
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