They are Meitei women who come from all sections of society in the Imphal valley, are widely respected, and represent a powerful moral force.
They are also known as “women torch bearers”, because of the flaming torches that they hold aloft while marching in the streets, often at night.
The Meira Paibis is loosely organised.
They usually led by groups of senior women, but have no rigid hierarchy or structure, or any overt political leanings.
The Meira Paibi was formed in 1977.
It is One of the largest grassroots movements in the world.
Its initial focus of fighting alcoholism and drug abuse has now expanded to countering human rights violations and the development of society at large.
The Meira Paibi women were the active support base of Irom Sharmila.
She is the activist who remained on a hunger strike in the state from 2000 to 2016 to protest against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).