Women in the Forefront: Women's Movement in Manipur

The twentieth century witnessed a number of significant instances of participation by women in socio-economic and political uprisings in India. Similarly Manipur, situated in North East India also witnessed such women led movements. Women in Manipur have always played outstanding role in the political history of the state. The paper explores the sequence of such movements starting from the 1^st Nupilan (First Women’s Agitation) in 1904 against the British rule; the 2^nd Nupilan (Second Women’s Agitation) in 1939 against the economic policies; the Nisha Bandh movement; and the Meira Paibis (torch bearing women); movements led by the Kuki Mother’s Association, the Naga Women’s Association, All Tangkhul Women’s Association. Even in the individual level, there was Rani Gaidinliu who led a freedom struggle against the British in Manipur. In the present scenario, Irom Sharmila who has entered her 15^th year of fasting and protest demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act is one remarkable women activist. Interestingly, the paper brings out that despite their valour, industriousness and contribution in their respective community during critical situation, women hold a very inferior social position. The paper brings out how women are poorly represented in the larger decision-making bodies. The paper brings out this lack of female representation and asserts for a larger representation of women in the decision making bodies in the state. The paper also points out the lack of interaction, their isolation and independence and calls for a need of strategic action to be initiated among them. The paper also recommends on bridging the gap and work towards improving women’s rights and empowerment.