The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) solemnly observed the 78th Manipur Independence Day at its office located in Kawakeithel (Kwakeithel) Akham Leikai. The programme included prominent representatives from women’s and social organizations as part of the presidium, such as:
AMUCO President – Pheiroijam Nando Luwang
Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibee Apunba Manipur President – Soraisam Memcha
All Manipur Women’s Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA) President – Yumkhaibam Kunjarani
Highlights of the event:
AMUCO’s presidential address poignantly described the current hardships within the state, likening citizens’ lives to being “prisoners in the prison market.” The speech emphasized concerns over ongoing ethnic violence, mass displacement, and the imposition of President’s Rule.There was a strong critique of the Central Government’s engagements with Kuki‑Zo groups—progressing from demands for an autonomous council to a Union Territory with legislature—which AMUCO argued pose a serious risk to Manipur’s territorial integrity.The observance recognized that Manipur regained its independence from British rule on 14 August 1947, notably just one day before India, though this sovereignty was short-lived due to Manipur’s integration into India in 1949
Context & Historical Significance
August 14, 1947 marks a historically significant moment when Manipur regained its sovereignty from British rule—one day prior to India’s independence. However, this independence was transient, as Manipur merged into the Indian Union in 1949