Amid continuing unrest and social tensions in Manipur, state Minister Loken Singh has urged civil society organisations to refrain from threatening or intimidating artists. He made the appeal while speaking at the inauguration of the Thakhaisida Manipuri Theatre at the Maharaja Chandrakirti Auditorium in Imphal East on September 30.
The event was organised as part of the Seva Sankalp Utsav 2026 by the Department of Art and Culture. During his address, Singh emphasised the importance of protecting artists and cultural workers, describing culture as an important representation of Manipur to the outside world.
Culture Seen as a Symbol of Manipur
The minister stressed that artists should be allowed to continue their creative work without fear or pressure. He highlighted the relationship between society and culture, arguing that cultural traditions and artistic expression are sustained through the wider community.
Singh also acknowledged that changing public attitudes can be difficult during a period of prolonged unrest. However, he called for greater social responsibility and said that artists and cultural practitioners should not become targets of intimidation.
His comments come against the backdrop of continuing tensions in Manipur, where civil society organisations have been actively involved in protests and campaigns over political, security and social issues. Various groups have recently organised demonstrations and shutdowns over matters including the National Register of Citizens and the Suspension of Operations agreements.
Artists Continue to Face a Challenging Environment
The cultural sector has faced its own difficulties during the prolonged crisis in the state. Cultural workers and organisations have raised concerns about the condition of performance spaces, support for artists and the preservation of Manipuri traditions.
Earlier in September, a delegation from the Cultural Workers and Activists Forum met Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to discuss the state’s cultural policy. Among the issues raised were the renovation of old theatres and cultural halls, incentives and recognition for artists, and the protection of indigenous knowledge, literature, music, dance and performing arts.
These concerns underline the wider challenges facing the cultural community while normal social and economic life remains affected by the unrest.
Call for Peace and Social Harmony
Loken Singh’s appeal also reflects broader calls for restraint and a return to normalcy in Manipur. The state government has repeatedly asked civil society organisations and other stakeholders to avoid actions that could further disrupt ordinary life.
Chief Minister Khemchand has previously appealed to stakeholders to refrain from bandhs and general strikes, saying such shutdowns can affect livelihoods, students and vulnerable sections of society.
The government has also urged civil society groups to avoid disrupting the functioning of government offices during ongoing agitations.
Department Focuses on Cultural Awareness
Alongside the appeal for protection of artists, the Department of Art and Culture is seeking to strengthen awareness about Manipur’s artistic heritage among younger generations.
The recent cultural event featured a performance of Narasingh (Awa Ngamba) by the People’s Arts and Dramatic Association of Imphal East. The play was written by the late Lairenmayum Ibungohal Singh and formed part of the programme highlighting Manipuri theatre and its legacy.
Padma Shri awardee Sabitri Heisnam also highlighted the need for better facilities for theatre professionals, including the restoration of several ageing performance venues.
Preserving Culture During Unrest
The minister’s remarks place renewed attention on the role of artists in preserving Manipur’s cultural identity during a difficult period. Theatre, music, dance, literature and traditional art forms provide important spaces for cultural expression and community engagement.
With tensions continuing across parts of the state, calls for protecting artists and cultural institutions add another dimension to discussions about restoring normalcy. The government and cultural organisations now face the task of ensuring that artistic activity can continue while broader efforts toward peace and social stability remain underway.