European Manipuri Association

The European Manipuri Association (EMA, ) is a non-profit organization representing the Meitei diaspora (Manipuri diaspora) in Europe. Founded to promote cultural, social, and humanitarian interests of people of Manipuri origin, EMA organizes community events, engages in advocacy on issues affecting Manipur, and provides a platform for the diaspora to maintain cultural identity.

History

EMA has been active since at least 2013. It holds annual social gatherings and general body meetings across Europe to connect Manipuri families, promote cultural awareness, and encourage community engagement. Its events typically feature traditional Manipuri cuisine, sports activities, cultural performances, and discussions on social and political issues affecting Manipur.

Organizational structure

EMA is governed by an elected executive committee. Positions include Chairperson, General Secretary, Finance Secretary, Information Secretary, Cultural Coordinator, Sports Secretary, and General Support Coordinator. Elections are held biennially.

Past executive committees

2013–2015

• Chairperson: Okram Bishwajit (Re-elected, Republic of Ireland)

• General Secretary: Khangembam Somorendro (Germany)

• Finance Secretary: Pinky Hijam (resigned mid-term, replaced by Rajyalakshmi Downes, London, UK)

• Information Secretary: Tiken Laishram (replaced by Nabakumar Salam, UK)

• Cultural Coordinator: Promila Huidrom (Norway)

• General Support Coordinator: Andrew Nangsha

2015–2017

• Chairperson: Dr. Krishnananda Sharma Shamurailatpam

• General Secretary: Indrasekhar Mayengbam

• Finance Secretary: Sobita Khangembam

• Information Secretary: Rajesh Sharma Hidangmayum

• Cultural Secretary: Bijaya Hijam

• Sports Secretary: Deepak Takhelmayum

Activities

Advocacy and humanitarian work

EMA engages in advocacy concerning political, social, and environmental issues in Manipur.

Memorandum on Manipur Violence (2024)

In July 2024, EMA submitted a memorandum to Vikram K. Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, highlighting the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur between Meitei and Kuki communities. EMA emphasized:

• Rehabilitation and compensation for internally displaced persons.

• Fencing and securing the Indo-Myanmar border with the Border Security Force (BSF).

• Actions against illegal immigration and demographic concerns.

• Measures to halt deforestation and prevent expansion of the 'Golden Triangle' drug trade into Manipur.

During an earlier meeting in London on 26 July 2024, EMA representatives submitted historical documents on Kuki refugees from the 1960s and official records highlighting ongoing tensions. The delegation also raised concerns about disinformation and perceptions of partiality among some security agencies.

Officials at the Indian High Commission, including Minister (Coordination) Deepak Choudhary, assured EMA that concerns would be relayed to authorities in New Delhi.

Environmental advocacy

On 12 January 2024, EMA condemned an oil spill in streams at Leimakhong, Imphal West. The spill posed a risk to drinking water and aquatic life. EMA demanded:

• Immediate clean-up operations.

• Water quality monitoring and public health assessments.

• Legal action against responsible parties.

• Public awareness campaigns on environmental protection.

Cultural events

EMA actively promotes Manipuri culture through festivals, food, and traditional performances.

Ningol Chakouba celebrations

• November 4, 2024: EMA hosted Ningol Chakouba in Flaunden Village, Hertfordshire, UK, bringing together Manipuris from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The event included traditional food, cultural performances, and messages promoting peace and harmony among communities.

• 14 November 2015 (Kent, UK): EMA organized Ningol Chakouba with traditional foods like Sareng Thongba, Rou Ataoba Thongba, , Chagem Pomba, and traditional dresses like Phanek for the Ningols (ladies). A drawing competition for children and a photo exhibition showcased Manipuri art and culture.

Annual social gatherings

EMA hosts annual gatherings across Europe featuring cultural, social, and sports activities:

2013 (Worcester, UK): EMA held a three-day Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting (25–27 May), including:

• Introduction sessions and patriotic Manipuri songs

• Traditional food prepared by members

• Football matches and hill walks

• Exhibitions of classical and contemporary Manipuri photography

• Discussions on community development and inclusivity

2015 (Worcestershire, UK): The 14th Annual Social Gathering (22–24 May) featured:

• Traditional Manipuri cuisine

• Sports events including football matches and Thabal Chongba

• Fundraising campaigns for orphans in Manipur

• Annual General Body Meeting and election of new executive committee

• Cultural exhibitions and educational programs for children

Community development

EMA supports diaspora members in need and encourages initiatives for social welfare, environmental protection, and youth engagement. Programs include:

• Educational workshops for children

• Fundraising campaigns for humanitarian causes in Manipur

• Environmental clean-up drives

See also

• Meitei people in the United Kingdom
• Meitei people in the United States
• Meitei people in Canada
• Meitei people in Australia

References