Manipur Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh on Thursday assured that the state government will ensure incidents like the one at Gwaltabi do not happen again. On May 20, security forces allegedly covered the word “Manipur” on the windshield of a state transport bus carrying journalists to the Shirui Festival in Ukhrul, triggering widespread outrage in the Imphal Valley.
Speaking at a press conference alongside Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, the Chief Secretary expressed regret over the incident and said the government is committed to upholding the state’s integrity.
“There were no instructions from the government to cover the state’s name. A thorough inquiry has been ordered and the truth will be known soon,” Singh said.
He added that the Governor has constituted an Inquiry Committee to look into the matter, and action will be taken against those responsible.
The Chief Secretary also highlighted the peaceful and inclusive nature of the Shirui Festival, which drew around 1.7 lakh visitors from across the state and beyond.
Appealing for public calm, Singh reiterated, “The administration’s only aim is to restore lasting peace in Manipur and ensure such incidents are never repeated.”
