Genesis of Meira Paibi movement recalled on foundation day

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Dec 29 : The All Manipur Women's Social Reformation & Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj) observed the “45th Meira Paibi Houdokkhiba Numit” at Phumlou Community Hall today.
The event was graced by Thokchom Ramani Leima, president, Nupi Samaj; Lourembam Nganbi Leima, president, Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup (AMKIL); Yambem Momon Leima, president, Tammi Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup; Wangkhem Ahanbi, president, All Phumlou Apunba Nupi Lup and Keisham Sohadeba, Zilla Parishad Member, Lamshang AC as the presidium members.
The gathering offered floral tributes to the photos of deceased meira paibi leaders who pioneered the movement.
Addressing the gathering, Th Ramani recalled a growing women's movement building in Manipur in response to the atrocities of the Indian Government, including those committed under the draconian AFSPA 1958.
On December 29, 1980, an innocent civilian from Heirangoithong Makha Maibam Leikai was arrested and tortured by Central security personnel at their Canchipur campus on the charge of planting a bomb.
Earlier known as Nisa Bandhi, the women leaders of Nupi Samaj along with many womenfolk secured the release of the arrested person. Since then, women with torches have guarded their localities at night against such atrocities and December 29 has been celebrated as Meira Paibi Houdokhibi Numit, said Th Ramani.  
Commenting on the Manipur unrest, she stressed the need for all communities residing in Manipur as well as State legislators to work together to save the State.
Meanwhile, Khuraijam Athouba, convenor, COCOMI, lauded meira paibis' contribution in curbing the use of drugs and other narcotic substances.  
He also commended their role in protesting human rights violations and pertinent issues of the State.
It is important for new and emerging women leaders to carry on the customs of the meira paibi, said Athouba.
The 45th Meira Paibi Houdokhiba Numit was also celebrated in different districts of the State in collaboration with organisations aligned with Nupi Samaj.