AMSU observes 56th Hunger Marchers' Day
Genesis of students' movement recalled
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 27 2021:
The All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) today commemorated the historical protest and movement of 1965 against unchecked export of rice and subsequent famine like situation in the State on the occasion of Hunger Marchers' Day.
The 56th observance of the day was held at Singjamei Pishum Chingamacha and was attended by AMSU executives, CSO representatives and students.
AMSU president, Haobijam Chalamba Meitei hoisted the AMSU flag to mark the beginning of the programme where rich tributes were paid to the shrines dedicated to those who laid down their lives during the protest march of August 27, 1965 .
It may be recalled that Oinam Nabakumar, Nongmeikapam Pramodhini, Waikhom Nilamani succumbed to injury at the protest site due to police action and many others were injured.
Another student who was part of the protest march also succumbed on September 26 the same year.
The main observation programme was held at AMSU office campus at Thangmeiband on the theme "Today's Challenges, Our Resurgence".
During the programme, former AMSU president Leihaothabam Sharatchandra narrated the protest day's account in detail.
He maintained that the protest march was a massive response by the irate students and people against 'artificial famine' induced by the State Government's uncontrolled rice export.
Thousands of students took to the street to protest against the situation but sadly they had to meet with guns and excessive force, he recalled.
Had the then Government been thoughtful and considerate about people's lives, such incidents might not have happened and no life would have been lost, he said and added that students should take a proactive role in identifying issues and help find remedies to them.
He also maintained that the student community should lead from the front against any issue which can potentially infringe on the State's territorial integrity.
The political analyst also said that student communities should also not remain silent over issues related to land disputes and expressed hope that RK Ranjan being the Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Education will contribute positively to resolve all issues.
Delivering the keynote address, AMSU president Chalamba maintained that the movement similar to 'Chaklam Khongchat/hunger march' first occurred in 1939 and the movement still remains relevant as there has been widespread report for non distribution of rice to beneficiaries under NFSA.
Decrying authorities inability to timely make fertilizers available to farmers, who are feeding the State, he also resented commercially focused private schools which are out to exploit students financially.
There will be no peace and unity if sections of the society start pursuing their own interests, he said, adding that AMSU will continue to stand for the welfare of the State and the student community.