Rich tributes paid to 'human torch'
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 16 2022:
The Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) today observed the 18th Martyrdom Day 2022 at Imphal and Bishnupur to remember the sacrifice made by 'Athouba' Pebam Chittaranjan who self immolated during the mass movement against AFSPA 1958.The observance began with a ritual at MSF head office and later tributes were paid to the 'Athouba' at the Student Martyrdom Complex at Bishnupur and at TYC ground, Takhellambam Leikai.
As a part of the programme, a number of students also took out a silent rally from Takhellambam Leikai to THAU Ground at Thangmeiband and observed silence for two minutes at THAU ground where the main event was held along with a blood donation camp.
Manipur Human Rights Commission Acting Chairperson Khaidem Mani, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur president Longjam Memchoubi, Committee on Human Rights (COHR) chairman Phulindro Konsam and MSF president Khangembam Bidyasagar were the presidium members of the function held at Thangmeiband.
At the event, MSF general secretary Hijam Roshan said that Pebam Chittaranjan self immolated on August 15, 2004 in protest against the 'draconian' AFSPA 1958 and died on the next day.
He said that the sacrifice of the Athouba motivates those who have been demanding the repeal of AFSPA 1958.MSF president Khangembam Bidyasagar said that the federation will continue to fight against the 'black law' along with the people of both the hill and valley districts as asipired by Pebarn Chittaranjan.
He also demanded that the AFSPA 1958 must be removed from the State completely as partial removal of the 'draconian Act' will not improve the situation in Manipur.
Social activist Dhanabir Laishram said that the imposition of AFSPA is akin to declaring a permanent emergency as it violates the right to life.
He also said that casting votes is not the only political right and added that reacting to the flaws of the Government is also a right of the people.
Floral tributes were also paid to the statue of Pebam Chittaranjan in front of CI College, Bishnupur by people coming from different parts of the State.