Verghese V Joseph –
Imphal: In a significant reversal, the Manipur government has revoked its decision to designate March 31, Easter Sunday, as a “working day” after facing vehement opposition from the Christian community. The move comes amidst global preparations for Easter, a festival commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, observed by millions worldwide.
The initial announcement by the Manipur government, aimed at ensuring smooth operations during the financial year’s end, stirred outrage particularly among Manipur’s Christian population, constituting around 40 percent of the state’s demographics. With Manipur already grappling with ethnic tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis, this decision added further fuel to the fire.
A notification issued on March 27 by Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey had declared March 30-31 as working weekends for government entities, including offices, corporations, and autonomous bodies, citing the imperative of maintaining operational efficiency during the financial year’s closure (2023-24).
However, Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), representing various tribal groups, strongly protested the order, emphasizing its disregard for the sentiments of the Christian community. ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong asserted, “Sunday is a day of rest, and we have Easter Sunday.” Similarly, Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me, representing Naga student groups, joined the chorus, urging the government to retract its decision.
The Christian populace in Manipur, comprising primarily Kukis, Zos, and Nagas, expressed deep discontent over the government’s move, highlighting the significance of Easter Sunday in their religious calendar.
Governor Uikey’s earlier directive underscored the necessity for offices to remain functional during the weekend, citing the approaching closure of the financial year. However, following widespread dissent and appeals from various quarters, the government has rescinded the order, acknowledging the importance of respecting religious observances and sentiments.
The episode underscores the delicate balance between administrative exigencies and cultural and religious sensitivities, particularly in regions marked by diverse demographics and ethnic complexities like Manipur
Good that better sense prevailed.
It is time for the Christian community in Manipur to shed off all mutual differences and elect those who are sensitive to their religious identity.How BJP forms a govt. there? When our own people are divided, these pseudo nationalist, self interest rogue elements form the govt. Who , then is responsible to bring them to power?