R-Day rehearsal in Mnp amid calls for boycott

Imphal, the state capital is fully prepared to host Manipur’s state-level celebrations of the 77th Republic Day, as final arrangements gain momentum amid tightened security measures in view of the boycott calls by armed rebel groups.
Authorities on Saturday conducted a full-dress rehearsal at Kangla fort, ensuring seamless coordination and a dignified celebration of the national event.
The rehearsal marked a key milestone in the preparations, with officials closely monitoring timing, formations, and ceremonial protocols.
The rehearsal saw the participation of marching contingents from various security forces, Army veterans, NCC cadets, school students, and cultural troupes, showcasing discipline and coordination.
During the main parade, scheduled for January 26, altogether 14 security personnel of different ranks will receive the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (Republic Day–2025), the Medal for Meritorious Service (Republic Day–2025), and the Medal for Meritorious Service (Independence Day–2025), an official release of the state DIPR said.
All ceremonial activities, including parade inspection, band performances, mass drill, and cultural programmes, were rehearsed to ensure smooth coordination and timely execution on Republic Day.
Top level senior police and Army officials were present to supervise the rehearsal and review the overall arrangements.
A tightened security arrangement was witnessed during the full-dress rehearsal in the backdrop of boycott calls given by the rebel groups resorting to armed struggle to regain the loss sovereignty of erstwhile Manipur kingdom.
As a part of the boycott, the rebel groups have imposed separate shutdowns on January 26 with the Coordination Committee (CorCom), a conglomerate of major rebel groups, giving an 18-hour statewide shutdown, urging the people to stay away from participation in the celebrations.
Alliance for Socialist Unity, Kangleipak (ASUK), an alliance of armed outfits – Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) – has also announced a 10-hour total shutdown, from 6 am to 4 pm on the day.
In view of the boycott and total shutdown strikes, apart from the police, a large number of Central security forces were detailed throughout the stretch of the roads where the parade was conducted.
District administration across the state also conducted the full-dress rehearsal at the respective district headquarters where the main events of the district level celebrations will be held.