Governor bats for peace on Khongjom Day
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 23 2012:
Taking serious note of the protracted insurgency problem and its ramifications like extortion, killings and abductions and the frequent imposition of bandhs and blockades in the State, Governor Gurbachan Jagat has called upon all to introspect and commit themselves to bring about peace and development.
Addressing the gathering at the Khongjom Day function at the historic Kongjom village today, the Governor said that it is unfortunate to see that Manipur has been passing through a difficult phase and the long period of turmoil has impacted the lives of its citizens, he said.
On this day every year, Khongjom day is celebrated pay respect to the martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the land against the invading British force in 1891 .
"Problems of insurgency and its ramifications such as abduction for ransom, extortion and killing continue, while imposing frequent bandhs and blockades are taken for granted by various organizations," the Governor said.
On the other hand , it is disheartening to say that in a State which is famous for its Ima Keithel, Nupilal and Meira Paibis, crime against women is on the rise, he lamented.
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"These dark forces have been not only significantly hampering the pace of development and progress both in social and economic spheres of the State but also consuming public money and the energy of the Government," said the Governor.
It is time for the people to introspect and commit themselves to bring the State among the comity of developed and peaceful States of the country, he added.
"On this auspicious occasion, while paying our humble tribute to the martyrs of Khongjom battle, let us once again renew our pledge to protect and preserve the sovereignty and dignity of our country.
Only then, paying of homage and tribute to the lovers of freedom will be meaningful," he said.
Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, who presided said that plans are afoot to take up a Rs 20-crore mega project to develop the historic Khongjom war memorial site and its surrounding area as an eco-tourism park.
Stating that the Government is mulling to acquire more land to take up the proposed project which would also transform as a great tourist destination, the Chief Minister urged the people to co-operate with such endeavor.
Earlier the VIPs led the people in paying floral tribute to the statue 'Major' Paona Brajabashi at the picturesque Kheba hillock at the memorial site.
Hordes of civil bodies, political parties also observed the day across the state.
Volunteers of All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) under the supervision of its President KT Rehman assisted the people who gathered at Kheba Ching in paying homage and offering floral tributes to the martyrs on Khongjom Day.
The civil society organisation also arranged vehicles for the general public at different locations of the State to travel to Kheba Ching, where the State function was held.
AMUCO observed the day under the theme, 'Khongjom Day Martyrs sacrificed for the motherland' .
In this regard, the organisation thanked the vehicle owners who transported a large number people to the Khongjom Day venue.
On the other hand, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee also observed the 121st Khongjom Day at Congress Bhavan.
Ministers, MLAs and Congress workers participated in the function.
Hueiyen Lallong Manipur Thang Ta Cultural Organisation, Irilbung also observed the day.