Meira Paibis

In times of war, society often turns women’s bodies into battlegrounds, yet paradoxically reveres the nation as a feminine entity. Amid the distressing violence in Manipur, where women have been subjected to rape, public nudity, and filming, the Meira Paibis, or Mothers of Manipur, emerge as resilient torchbearers. Comprising women from the Meitei community, these activists have fearlessly protested against atrocities in the state, refusing to yield to opposition.

Recently, the Meira Paibis mobilized against militants who fatally shot two security personnel in Moreh, near the India-Myanmar border. Marching toward Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s residence, they vociferously condemned the violence, urging the annulment of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) deal with militant groups. Despite facing police obstruction, the women persisted in their quest for justice.

Meira Paibis have a history of impactful protests, notably the Kangla Fort demonstration in 2004. Following the brutal rape and murder of Thangjam Manorama by the Indian Army, these activists staged a naked march, unveiling placards denouncing the heinous acts. The Kangla Protest, a powerful expression of dissent, spotlighted the lack of trust in central forces.

In response to the rape and public humiliation of Kuki community women by the Meitei community, Meira Paibis faced accusations and FIRs. Undeterred, they continued their mission to protect the state, emphasizing their stance against wrongdoing irrespective of ethnicity. Lourembam Nganbi, a Meira Paibi leader, emphasized their commitment to justice, stating, “We are against everyone who is doing wrong in our state – no matter which ethnicity they are from.”

In the face of adversity, the Meira Paibis stand as symbols of resilience and unwavering commitment to justice, challenging societal norms that often victimize women during times of conflict.

_{Repurposed article originally published in ShethePeople}