No Group Has Authority to Issue Decrees: Manipur Govt Draws Red Line After Insurgents’ Push to Boycott Tourism Fest

This article reports that the government of Manipur has formally warned that no individual, group or organisation — including proscribed insurgent outfits — has the authority to issue decrees, impose bans or punish persons for participating in lawful cultural or economic activities. The warning came after a cluster of insurgent groups attempted to impose a boycott and performance-ban on artists and organisations that took part in the state’s “Sangai Festival,” a major tourism event held despite ongoing conflict. The government clarified that any such attempt to intimidate, extort or restrict lawful activity will be treated as a criminal offence and prosecuted rigorously, and the public is urged to report suspicious activity to the police. The article highlights the state’s effort to uphold democratic rights, protect cultural expression, and enforce rule of law in a volatile security context.