CM calls for unity as state pays tribute to patriots
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, August 13 2024:
The state observed Patriots' Day with Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and chief minister N Biren leading in offering tributes to the heroes of the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.The commemoration began with offering of floral tributes at Heecham Yaicham Pat, Yaiskul, and Thangal Temple, Palace Compound in the morning, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Kangla Utra in the afternoon attended by dignitaries including ministers, MLAs, and senior officials.
On the occasion, CM Biren called for unity and concerted efforts to uphold the integrity of Manipur and overcome present challenges.
The observance continued at Shaheed Minar, Bir Tikendrajit Park, where the Governor along with the CM and others paid homage to those who sacrificed their lives to uphold Manipur's sovereignty.
A Guard of Honour was presented by a contingent of Manipur Rifles, and floral tributes were also offered at the memorial of the exiled martyrs of the 1891 War.
In his address, Governor Acharya emphasised the significance of Patriots' Day as a catalyst for unity and pride among the people of Manipur.
He highlighted the importance of education and awareness in upholding the values of patriotism and resilience inherited from the forebears while reminding the attendees of the courage displayed by the people of Manipur during the Anglo-Manipuri War, challenging the might of the British Empire.
He urged the present generation to honour these heroes by fostering peace, integrity, and progress.
Speaking at the commemorative event, chief minister N Biren underscored the importance of motherland and called for unity among the people of Manipur to bring peace and development.
Acknowledging hardships being endured by those displaced by the conflict and commending the assistance by the central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in restoring peace and normalcy to the state, the CM recalled the sovereign status of Manipur before it came under British rule on April 27, 1891 following defeat in the Anglo-Manipuri War.
He recounted the fates of Maharaja Kulachandra, Yubaraj Tikendrajit, and others, who were accused of waging war against Queen Victoria.
On August 13, 1891, Yubaraj Tikendrajit and Thangal General were hanged, while Niranjan Subedar, Kajao, and Chirai Naga met the same fate on different dates inside the Manipur Jail.
Maharaja Kulachandra and 21 others were deported to Kalapani.
The CM expressed hope that the present generation, while paying homage to the sacrifices of their forefathers, would contribute their mite in resolving conflicts peacefully.
He also called for unity against forces attempting to disintegrate the state and for promoting peaceful coexistence.
The event was also attended by Manipur Legislative Assembly speaker, ministers, MLAs, security advisor, DGP, high-ranking civil and police officials, and students.
According to separate releases, Apunba Poramlen Marup-Manipur observed Patriots' Day by paying floral tributes at Kwakeithel Leimakhuman Leikai community hall; Thang-Ta Maheikol at its training hall located at Yumnam Huidrom; All Manipur Art & Culture Students' Union at Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy campus; and Sana Leibak Manipur Hakchang Shajel Thang Ta Shindam Shanglen at Nambol.
Neinasang Club and Joint Administrative Council (JAC) of All Manipur Trade Unions' Council (AMTUC) and All Manipur Govt.Employees' Organisation (AMGEO) also observed Patriots' Day at their respective offices.
Meanwhile, Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) Manipur along with Manipur Women's Federation (MWF) observed the day at its Kakwa Naorem Leikai Boroi Makhong office with FOCS president Th Manihar, MWF president Kh Shini Leima and FOCS vice president Yaima Shah as presidium members.
Joint Students' Coordinating Committee also observed Patriots' Day by paying floral tributes to the photos of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General at MI Academy located at Canchipur; Shillong Manipur Students' Union at Manipur House, Shillong Rajbari; and Socio Economic Ecological and Cultural Organisation at Uttrayan theatre located at Khurai Sajor Leikai.
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