Manipuri Community in Silchar Holds Massive Protest, Renews Call for Autonomous Council

Silchar, July 11: In a powerful display of unity and cultural assertion, hundreds of members from Assam’s Manipuri community staged a massive protest in Silchar on Thursday, reiterating their long-standing demand for the creation of a Manipuri Autonomous Council. The demonstration, organised by the Manipuri Autonomous Council Demand Coordination Committee, was held near the Shaheed Khudiram Bose statue and drew participation from all sections of the Manipuri society, including women, youth, and community elders.

Waving placards and raising slogans, the demonstrators stressed that their demand is not just political but a constitutional right—a long-overdue recognition of a community that has been an integral part of Assam’s cultural and demographic fabric for centuries.

“We are not asking for anything extraordinary. Other communities have been granted autonomous councils. Why should Manipuris be treated differently?” questioned one of the protest leaders, voicing the collective frustration of over five lakh Manipuris residing in Assam, particularly in the Barak and Brahmaputra Valleys.

The protesters pointed out that despite repeated assurances by Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, including promises made during election campaigns, the demand has seen no meaningful progress over the last five years.

According to historical records and community leaders, the Manipuri people have been residing in Assam since the 16th century, contributing significantly to the socio-cultural landscape of the state. The proposed autonomous council, they argue, is essential to safeguard their identity, heritage, and rights in the face of increasing marginalisation.

“This is not a political favour we are asking for—it’s a matter of existence and dignity,” said another demonstrator, adding that the state’s failure to act has led to growing resentment and disillusionment within the community.

The protest was entirely peaceful, yet firm in tone, with a clear message to the Assam government: fulfil the promise, or face intensified agitation in the near future. Organisers confirmed that the movement would continue in democratic ways until their constitutional demand is met.

This latest protest adds momentum to a series of mobilisations by the Manipuri community across Assam in recent years. As the call for justice grows louder, all eyes are now on Dispur to respond with clarity and action.

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