124th Death Anniversary of Gen Balaram : Contributions of unsung hero recalled
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 02 2013: Well wishers, scholars and great grand children of 'General' Balaram Sougaijamba are not happy with the 'ignorance' and refusal of the State Government to acknowledge the contributions of the gallant warrior.

This was brought out succinctly during the 124th death anniversary of the Manipuri hero held at Sougaijam Lampak close to his residence on May 1 .

Besides being a valiant fighter, Balaram (1816-1889) was also an able administrator and a statesman.

He helped Maharaja Gambhir Singh in defeating and driving out the Burmese troops after their seven year-occupation of Manipur.

Though history has clearly highlighted Balaram's gallantness and skilled administrative quality, the State Government is yet to recognize his contributions as well as other unsung heroes of Manipur, lamented Sougailam Lalit Singh, great grandson of Balaram.

The general's granddaughter Sougaijam Saraju Devi, president of the occasion, also echoed Lalit's thought.

Plaque of General Balaram

Manipur Works Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar Singh, chief guest of the function, nevertheless said he would take up the matter with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and give due acknowledgement to General Balaram.

Art and Culture Commissioner RK Nimai Singh said Balaram was instrumental in safeguarding the boundaries and keeping a healthy relation between the hill and valley people.

He displayed a rare art of diplomacy and his exemplary works are worth recalling, Nimai said.

Lauding the warrior's extra-ordinary qualities, Ratan said Balaram remained neutral when internal conflicts emerged within the royal family members but the gallant warrior rose to his duty when the kingdom faced any threat from outside forces.

"The three qualities possessed by Balaram � excellence in character, undisputed integrity and loyalty to the people and the land- are praiseworthy and even the British admired his exemplary personality," the Works Minister said adding his administrative skills are unique and incomparable.

At the occasion, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for a library-cum-research centre of the unsung hero.

Sougaijam Priyokumar, one of the scions of Balaram said his excellence in border affairs management consistently brought a close affinity and harmony between the hill and valley people.

Hordes of scholars, who attended the occasion expressed discontent over the State Government's unseemly indifference towards the gallant warrior.

The function began with paying of floral tributes to the portrait of Balaram by a large number of people.

During the hero's 123rd death anniversary occasion last year, a book on the general christened "The Life Story of General Balaram Sougaijamba" written by B Kulachandra was released.