legendary Indian boxer and Olympic medallist MC Mary Kom provided humanitarian support to internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the ongoing conflict in Manipur, distributing blankets and conveying messages of solidarity, hope, and resilience. Her visit took place at the protest site at Lanboikhongnangkhong in Imphal West, where the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and displaced families have been protesting since December 1, urging the resettlement of all displaced families by the government’s deadline of December 31.
During her visit, Mary Kom handed out blankets to the IDPs and engaged with affected families, expressing profound empathy and referring to her actions as a small yet significant form of support that could bring comfort and renewed hope to those facing extended hardships. In a key initiative to empower children from IDP families, she announced that those interested in boxing would receive free training at her boxing academy. Mary Kom emphasized the therapeutic power of sports in alleviating trauma, instilling discipline, and rebuilding confidence in children who are being raised amid violence and displacement.
She urged continued collective responsibility from authorities and society to ensure that displaced families experience rehabilitation with dignity, safety, and long-term security. The gesture was highly praised by COCOMI Women Wing Convenor RK Tharaksa, who noted that Mary Kom’s presence offered emotional strength and renewed encouragement to those affected. The IDP community and COCOMI members expressed their heartfelt gratitude, highlighting the initiative as a significant act of compassion during a time of deep distress.
