Imphal, January 21: The Coordination Committee (CorCom), an apex body of six banned insurgent groups in Manipur, has announced an 18-hour statewide shutdown on January 26, rejecting the celebration of India’s Republic Day.
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In a statement issued on Tuesday, CorCom described Republic Day celebrations as a “colonial replica” that, it claimed, undermines local identity. The outfit alleged that India’s democratic system has become increasingly autocratic, citing unnamed global democracy watchdogs to support its assertion.
The statement further accused the government of using propaganda and what it termed “false indoctrination” to create divisions among the people, while suppressing local movements in Manipur, which CorCom referred to as Kangleipak. The group claimed such actions have marginalised indigenous voices and aspirations.
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However, CorCom clarified that essential services, including medical emergencies, will be exempted from the shutdown and allowed to function during the period.
The shutdown call comes amid heightened security arrangements traditionally associated with Republic Day observances in the state. Authorities have not yet issued an official response to the announcement.
