Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 13 2010:
As in other parts of the State, Patriots Day was also observed at the General Thangal Ecological Park, Mayangkhang in Senapati district today.
Offering of floral tributes to the statue of General Thangal installed inside the park as well as to the photograph of Bir Tikendrajit and the guard of honour given by a contingent of Manipur Police were some of the main highlights of the event.
Organised under the joint aegis of Senapati district administration and Patriots' Day Celebration Committee, the function was attended by Chairman of Hill Areas Committee (HAC) Thangminlien Kipgen as chief guest and MLA M Prithiviraj as functional president.
Deputy Commissioner in-charge of Senapati district H Rupachandra, SP, DIG Range-I Sushilkumar and other civil officers were also present at the occasion.
Advisor of Information Centre for Hill Areas, Manipur (ICHAM),and former editor of and former editor of ISTV Kangujam Madhumangol, editor of Huieyen Lanpao Brozendro Ningombam, columnist of The Sangai Express (Manipuri edition) Haobam Sanajaoba and president of ICHAM N Rajendro also shared the dais along with other dignitaries.
Speaking at the occasion, Thangminlien Kipgen observed that the present generation should never forget the exemplary courage shown by the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the cause of motherland.
Remembering them understanding of why they did not hesitate from sacrificing their lives would make observance of Patriots' Day more meaningful.
In his presidential address, Prithiviraj said that after the Britishers left Manipur, a handful of people have been trying to use its divide and rule policy to create enmity among the various communities living in Manipur.
This should be condemned and challenged by the united stand of the people.
The united stand of the people against the British occupation in Manipur should be remembered.
Then only, there can be peace and development in Manipur today, he added.