MP Sanajaoba Condemns Central Forces for Forcing ‘Manipur’ Name to Be Covered on State Transport Bus

Imphal, May 20: In a strong-worded social media post, Rajya Sabha MP from Manipur, Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, has expressed deep anguish over a recent incident involving security forces allegedly asking a journalist team to conceal the word “Manipur” from the windshield of a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus.

The journalist team was reportedly on its way to Ukhrul to cover the inauguration of the Shirui Lily Festival—an annual state-level event organized by the Government of Manipur and graced by the Hon’ble Governor. The festival celebrates the state flower, Shirui Lily, and is held in Ukhrul district.

Calling the incident “surprising and painful,” the MP questioned the motive behind such an order from Central Forces deployed in the region. “Who gave this order to conceal the name of our own state within our own state?” he asked in his post. He further raised concerns about possible attempts to “disintegrate the state” rather than restore peace and normalcy.

“This is a State Festival, organised by the State Government. Asking to cover ‘Manipur’ is an insult to the people and the identity of the state,” he wrote.

MP Sanajaoba called for appropriate actions to be taken and justice to be delivered, urging people to unite and reflect with a clear mind. “We should not compromise anything at the cost of our own land,” he added.