Soma Laishram has acted in more than 100 Manipuri films.
Imphal:
Manipuri actor Soma Laishram, who was recently banned by an Imphal-based organization from acting in films and attending public events after her participation in a beauty pageant, has strongly opposed the move, claiming that she has done nothing against her state .
The ban was imposed on her by civil society group Kangleipak Kanba Lup for participating in the event in Delhi amid the ongoing violence in Manipur.
Laishram said in a video on social media that she is shocked and disheartened over the development.
“I strongly oppose this directive; as an artist and social influencer, I have every right to make my voice heard wherever I want and whenever necessary… I have done nothing against my state and my motherland,” said he. Laishram, who has acted in more than 100 Manipuri films.
“When I was called to represent Manipur at the North East Festival as a showstopper, I went only with the intention of supporting my state and spreading awareness (about the reason behind the violence) among the thousands of people present there,” said the 31st. year-old actor said.
The ban on Laishram has led to widespread condemnation from the public and film fraternity.
When contacted, a top official of the Film Forum Manipur claimed that such interference is unfortunate and inappropriate.
More than 175 people have been killed and several hundred injured since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, when a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to protest the majority Meitei community’s demand for the Scheduled Tribe status.
Meiteis constitute about 53 percent of Manipur’s population and live mainly in the Imphal Valley, while tribes, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 percent and live mainly in the hill districts.
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