If not for Alimuddin, MU won't be at Canchipur: O Joy
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 19 2012:
Recalling the contributions made by late Md Alimuddin, the first Chief Minister of Manipur, for the welfare of the state; ex-Minister O Joy of MPP has observed that if Alimuddin had not been born, Manipur University would not be at its present place.
O Joy was delivering the Presidential speech of the 40th foundation day of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Center, Imphal (forerunner of Manipur University) at the hall of Manipur Institute of Management Studies (MIMS), Manipur University here today.
The function was jointly organized by Pangal Political Forum (PPP), Manipur; Local Surroundings of Manipur University (LSPMU) Chanchipur and Manipur University.
Hailing Alimuddin as a leader not only for the Muslim or the tribal and Meetei communities of Manipur but of the entire North East India, O Joy observed that as a leader, Alimuddin made great contribution in the field of education, health, agriculture and irrigation sectors.
With a firm determination and struggle to establish a higher educational institute, amidst political disturbances, Alimuddin laid the foundation stone of JNU, Center Imphal, which was later transformed into Manipur University in 1974, O Joy recalled.
He went on to say that Alimuddin was against the political domination of smaller states and minorities groups by other mainland India and central government.
He was one of the Chief Ministers who paved the way for a bright and dignified future of Manipur.
In respect of the works done by such a pioneering leader, memorial statues ought to be erected all over the state.
Former Member of Parliament Kim Gangte, who attended the function as one of the Guests of Honour, described the late CM as a "unifying force" for all the communities in Manipur and urged the people to follow the ideology of Alimuddin.
Instead of questioning what the state has done for us, people of the Manipur should think what they can contribute to the state, she added.
General Secretary of Manipur State Communist Party of India Dr M Nara, who also attended the function as one of the Guests of Honour, hailed the late CM as the most intelligent person who with his foresightedness initiated many long-term plans for the welfare of the people of Manipur.
Recollecting his personal encounter with Alimuddin, Dr Nara said that simplicity, encouragement and courage are the qualities that Alimuddin possesed.
Chief Advisor of PPF and another Guest of Honour of the function AR Khan observed that among the Manipuri Muslim political leaders, Alimuddin was one such person whose biography and works are deserved to be read and studied in academic institutes.
Prof H Nandakumar Sarma, Vice-Chancellor of MU and Chief Guest of the function said that considering the contributions made by Alimuddin, people of Manipur should respect him as a leader and a pioneer in many fields.
Advisor of LSPMU, A K Aviram who delivered the keynote address highlighted the importance of preserving the foundation stone of MU, which is situated inside the campus as respect to the late CM.
Alimuddin's elder son and former Minister Md Alauddin read out a short biography of his late father.
Prof.T Ratankumar Singh, Dean of Students' Welfare of MU; M Tombi Singh, President of JD (U) Manipur State; A R Shah, President of PPF were also present and spoke on the occasion as Guests of Honour.