Full Breakdown
Malem Thongam Completes Nationwide Peace Cycle Rally Amidst Manipur's Ethnic Conflict
12/20/2025, 11:18:21 AM
Overview of the Peace Expedition
Malem Thongam, a 27-year-old transgender activist from Imphal East, concluded her 77-day nationwide peace cycle rally on December 19, 2025, arriving at the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal. The journey, titled "Cycling for Manipur Peace," began on October 2, 2025, from Qutub Minar in New Delhi, covering over 2,300 kilometers through five states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, and Nagaland. Thongam's mission aimed to promote peace and unity in Manipur, a state experiencing severe ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, which has resulted in nearly 300 deaths and widespread displacement.
Challenges Faced During the Journey
Throughout her expedition, Thongam encountered significant logistical, political, and security challenges, particularly in her home state of Manipur. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), representing Kuki civil society, opposed her route through Kangpokpi district, threatening her safety. In response, security forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), provided an escort to ensure her safe passage. Despite these threats, Thongam successfully navigated sensitive areas, emphasizing her commitment to peace.
Community Engagement and Support
During her journey, Thongam engaged with various communities, civil society groups, and religious organizations, promoting inter-faith harmony. She paused in Patna to pray at Jama Masjid, highlighting her message of unity. Many towns welcomed her with placards and gestures of solidarity, showcasing a collective desire for peace among the populace.
Reception in Imphal
Upon her return to Imphal, Thongam received a hero's welcome from supporters, including women vendors from Khwairamband Keithel. The reception included traditional honors, prayers, and expressions of solidarity, symbolizing hope amidst ongoing unrest. Thongam reiterated her commitment to challenging forces that advocate violence and division in Manipur.
Official Statements & Responses
Malem Thongam expressed disappointment over the opposition from some Kuki individuals, questioning their desire for peace in the region. She condemned attempts to create communal disharmony and vowed to continue her efforts to restore peace through collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations. Laishram Memma, convenor of the Khwairamband Ima Keithel Joint Coordinating Committee, praised Thongam's dedication to spreading a message of peace.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Thongam announced plans for a second phase of her peace cycling mission in 2027, which will extend beyond Manipur to other parts of India. She aims to document her journey in a magazine to be published in Kolkata in 2026, further advocating for dialogue and reconciliation.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the support she received, Thongam faced significant opposition from CoTU, which warned her against continuing her journey. She reported threats to her safety, including derogatory remarks about her gender identity on social media. Nevertheless, she remained resolute in her mission, emphasizing the importance of peace and unity in a divided state.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Why is it that some Kuki people don't want peace to return to Manipur?” — Malem Thongam, Transgender Activist
- “Speaking to the media, Malem said she will continue to challenge all forces who oppose the idea of a Manipur or advocates for violence, through various initiatives.” — Malem Thongam, Transgender Activist
- “Expressing her admiration for Malem, Laishram Memma, convenor of the Khwairamband Ima Keithel Joint Coordinating Committee (KIKJCC), said they are proud of Malem for travelling across the country with a message of peace for Manipur.” — Laishram Memma, Convenor of KIKJCC
