COCOMI and People of Manipur Demand Apology from Governor AK Bhalla

Tensions ran high in Manipur as the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), along with a large number of citizens, demanded an official apology from Governor AK Bhalla over the alleged removal of the word "MANIPUR" from an official Manipur State Transport (MST) bus.

The controversy erupted after an MST bus, reportedly sent to Ukhrul for coverage of the Shitui Festival on May 20, was found with the name "Manipur" deliberately removed or covered. The act has sparked widespread anger among the public, who view it as a direct insult to the state's identity and a grave violation of the integrity of Manipur.

Protesters, including a significant number of Meira Paibis, attempted to march toward Raj Bhawan to voice their demands. However, security personnel blocked their movement and resorted to firing tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the crowd. In the chaos, several women sustained injuries, further fueling public anger.

COCOMI strongly condemned the use of force against peaceful demonstrators and called on the Governor to issue an immediate and public apology. The organization warned that failure to respond appropriately would lead to intensified public agitation across the state.

Security measures in and around the Raj Bhavan have been tightened following the incident.