Identity Day
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 17 2015 :
The All Assam Manipuri Students' Union (AAMSU) observed the 16th Identity Day at the office of the Committee on Culture for Peace & Integrity (COCPIN), Itkhola, Silchar today, reports Jiri News Network.
It may be noted that on May 17, 1999, a large number of Manipuris residing in Barak Valley and Tripura held a mass rally to protest against the Bishnupriyas being referred to as Manipuri-Bishnupriya.
Protesters marched across Silchar town to submit a memorandum to Cachar DC.
However, security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the protesters.
While many sustained injuries during the clash, protesters also damaged properties of the DC office.
Various student leaders who were present on that day recounted the incident during today's programme and asserted that the peaceful initiative was undertaken to preserve the identity of the indigenous Manipuris.
The programme was attended by AAMSU vice-president Kh Prosen Kr, Professor Okram Churamani, social activist Saikhom Kamlakanta, AAMSU information secretary Ksh Khrisnamohan, AAMSU general secretary Pangbam Nilakanta, AAMSU legal advisor H Babu.