27th Onae Reh Da commemorated
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, July 10 2014: The 27th 'Onae Reh Da' was commemorated at Taphou Onaeme, some 5 kms away from here.

The observation was held to remember the death of numbers of civilians during the 'operation Bluebird' in 1987 .

It may be recalled that on July 9,1987, the Assam Rifles' outpost at Oinam Hill was attacked by the NSCN cadres which resulted in killing of nine AR soldiers and looting large quantities of arms and ammunition.

In retaliation to the attack, the counter insurgency code name 'Operation Bluebird' was launched on July 11, 1987 .

Many civilians were killed during the combing operation while many villagers were tortured, properties and schools were destroyed, women were sexually harassed and abused resulting in gross human rights violation.

The operation left the Oinam village severely devastated and traumatized while the surrounding villages were also adversely affected during the operation.

The villagers of Taphou Onaeme and Onaeme Young People gathered to pray and pay homage to the leaders killed during the incident and reflected upon the past's struggle and suffering.

Various speakers spoke on how the towering leaders of the village had paid the heavy price by laying down their lives to save the people and the land.

The sacrifice of the leaders and the civilians should be a motivating force to unite the peopl in all times, asserted the speakers.

Special songs were sung and prayers were also offered during the commemoration programme.

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