Cheiraoba celebrated quietly in Manipur amid tensions as internet curbs extended in five districts to prevent unrest and rumours.
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IMPHAL — Cheiraoba, the New Year of the Manipuris, was celebrated on Tuesday without much fanfare amid the ongoing tension in view of the fresh violence in Manipur.
The festival, which usually falls in March-end or early April, symbolises the advent of the new year. This time, people of the state celebrated the festival with minimum rituals such as offering fruits and dishes to deities for protection of families.
There are reports of celebration of the festival in other parts of the country too.
The food is offered by the elders of the house to three deities for protection of the family. Married women give gifts to their parents and brothers on the occasion.
Meanwhile, greeting the people on the eve of the occasion, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla conveyed warm wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of Cheiraoba.
In a message, the governor said Cheiraoba is marked by family gatherings, offering of prayers and age-old customs that strengthen the bonds of love and unity among people.
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On the other hand, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called upon the people to rise above all challenges as they proceed to cleanse their homes, offer traditional delicacies to local deities for protection and prosperity, and climb nearby hills to secure success in the coming year.
Manipur Assembly Speaker Th Satyabrata Singh prayed for this Cheiraoba to remind people that their shared identity, culture and traditions continue to shine brightly.
Internet curbs extended in 5 districts
The Manipur government has extended the temporary suspension of mobile internet and data services, including VPN access, in five districts of the state for another two days, with effect from 2 pm on April 14, amid the prevailing law and order situation.
The government stated that the decision was taken after reviewing the current situation and assessing the need for continued preventive measures to maintain public order.
Authorities expressed concern over the potential spread of disinformation and false rumours through social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) etc., which could lead to the mobilisation of mobs and result in violence, arson, or damage to public and private property.