The Mothers of Manipur – Twelve Women Who Made History

In 2004, twelve elderly women in Manipur staged a powerful protest against army violence by stripping naked outside Kangla Fort, highlighting their courage and the region's turbulent history. The Mothers of Manipur explores their impactful story.

The Mothers of Manipur – Twelve Women Who Made History by Teresa Rehman recounts a powerful and unprecedented event that took place on July 15, 2004, in Imphal, India. In front of the Kangla Fort, the Assam Rifles headquarters, a group of twelve women, all in their sixties and seventies, staged a bold protest against the custodial rape and murder of Thangjam Manorama, a 32-year-old woman suspected of being a militant. Their shocking act of defiance involved stripping naked, a gesture steeped in cultural significance, as they expressed their outrage and demanded justice. The women, known as the imas or mothers of Manipur, raised banners with provocative slogans such as “Indian Army Rape Us” and “Take Our Flesh,” challenging the norms and expectations of society.

Rehman’s narrative delves into the lives of these remarkable women, exploring their motivations and the deep-rooted issues that led to their courageous stand. Through their story, the author sheds light on the broader historical and socio-political context of Manipur, a region grappling with conflict and military presence. The protest quickly gained national attention, sparking conversations about women's rights, state violence, and the resilience of marginalized communities.

The book not only highlights this momentous protest but also serves as a tribute to the strength and determination of women in the face of adversity. Rehman's compelling storytelling invites readers to reflect on the significance of the imas' actions, their fight for justice, and the ongoing struggle for dignity and rights in a tumultuous landscape.