In an extraordinary display of resilience and solidarity, 26-year-old transgender activist Malem Thongam is cycling across India on a 3,000 km mission to appeal for peace in conflict-hit Manipur.

Malem, who hails from Maiba Khun Mayai Leikai in Koirengei, Imphal East, began his journey on October 2, 2025, from Delhi’s Qutub Minar under the campaign Cycling for Manipur’s Peace (CFMP). His route has taken him through Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and now Assam. From here, he will continue through Nagaland before reaching Manipur.

Manipur has been reeling from violent ethnic conflict since May 3, 2023 — with over 60,000 people internally displaced, entire villages burnt, reports of brutal attacks on women, and deepening mistrust among communities.

Against this backdrop, Male

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