The Manipur government has issued an order instructing organizations and individuals in the state not to change the names of districts, sub-divisions, places, institutions, and addresses on their own, in order to prevent possible conflicts between different communities. The order, released on Friday night, warns of legal consequences for those found involved in renaming of such entities. This directive comes after several instances of organizations renaming districts, places, and institutions along ethnic lines amidst the conflict between the tribal Kukis and non-tribal Meiteis that broke out on May 3.

The order states that such actions create problems for the authorities and are likely to fuel controversies and conflicts between communities residing in the state, especially in the context of the ongoing law and order crisis triggered by the Tribal Solidarity March organized by the All Tribal Students Union Manipur.

The Manipur government views the matter with utmost sensitivity as it has the potential to further divide communities and worsen the current law and order situation in the state. Violators of this order will be prosecuted under the relevant laws in force. The order also advises all central and state government authorities, management, institutions, establishments, and autonomous bodies to verify the names and addresses of their respective offices and ensure compliance with the directive in all signage, official communications, websites, and related documents.

District magistrates and superintendents of police in all districts have been instructed to take necessary action to enforce this order.