Imphal, August 14: The general strike called by 10 militant outfits of the North Easter region began at 12 midnight to boycott the Independence Day celebrations.

The boycott will conclude at 5 pm tomorrow.

Meanwhile all preparations are ready for the official function of Independence Day.

The main function will be held from 9.30 am at 1st MR ground with the Governor as chief guest.

Elaborate security measures have been taken up in the city in view of the strike.

A march past competition participated by 19 contingents will take part in the parade and the parade commander will be Clay Khongsai Additional SP of Imphal East police.

Governor Ved Marwah has greeted the people on the occasion of Independence Day.

Expressing satisfaction over the developments attained by the country since independence in 1947, the Governor: however noted that Manipur has been passing through a critical phase mainly during the last decade due to political instability, ethnic conflicts and insurgency.

All these have to a certain extent shattered human and social fabric of the society, criminalized it and put the democratic values and norms to serious strain, the Governor said.

The Governor said the time has come for all for some introspection and find out what ails society.

Marwah also called upon the people to strive and promote peace and harmony and to work together for the prosperity of Manipur and thecountry.

On the occasion of Independence Day Governor Ved Marwah offered amnesty to two convicts by remitting the remaining term of their sentences.

Amnesty: Two convicts have been granted amnesty.

They are Thounaojam Jagdish (35) son of Th Thambalngou of Singjamei Thongam Leikai and Nurjahan Bibi (43) wife of (L) Md Pheijudin of Babupara, Jiribam.

The Governor has also granted remission of sentence by two months to Thounaojam lbochou Singh (67) of Wangjing Hodamba.

Gallantry Awards: Two police personnel of Imphal West police will be conferred the President's Police Medal for Gallantry including one posthumous on the occasion of Independence Day.

The two police officials are SI A Tomba and Late Constable Chanambam Sanatomba.

Sanatomba died in an encounter with militants on January 7 last year.

The wife of the late personnel is expected to receive the award on behalf of her late husband.

The Governor will also give away the Jeevan Raksha Padak award to master Laishram Uttam Kumar of Langthabal Mayai Leikai for saving his friend from electrocution on November 16, 1999.Police Medals: Two other police officers of State Police have also been awarded Police Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion of Independence Day.

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