287th Puya Mei Thaba event observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 01 2016: The International Observation Committee on Puya Mei Thaba (ICOP) observed the 287th Puya Mei Thaba Memorial event at Kangla and Panthou Esaikonung Wangkhei Hijam Leikai today.

A mass procession from Panthou Esaikonung Wangkhei Hijam Leikai to Kangla Fort was taken out followed by an offering of floral tributes at the statues of scholars of the erstwhile royal Court of Manipur.

A public meeting was later held at Panthou Esaikonung Wangkhei Hijam Leikai wherein the gathering observed a minute silence in remembrance of the Puya Mei Thaba incident.

ICOP also unfurled the flag of the Seven Salais at the occasion.

Attending as chief guest, titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba said the burning of the ancient Manipuri scriptures is the most unfortunate incident in the history of Manipur.

ICOP has been observing the fateful day for 38 years now.

The objective of the observation is not driven by any ill-will against those responsible for burning the scriptures but is aimed at cautioning all Nations across the world to avoid such catastrophic events.

Tangkhul Naga Wungnaolong president Sweeten Rahing observed that civil organisations should declare Puya Mei Thaba as a black day.

Shantidas Gosai had attempted to force Hinduism on the people by eliminating the rich Manipuri history and thereby the culture of the State.

The observation is an attempt to build the unity between the hill and valley people that was shaken by the Puya Mei Thaba incident, added Sweeten.

Jalabad Gas Transmission & Distribution System Limited Deputy General Manager Oinam Ramandrakumar Singha, ICOP chairman RV Mingthing, vice chairman Moirangthem Naodalenkhomba, Apokpa Marup Cachar Naoria Amusana, delegates from Myanmar, UMMWDO president Anwari Nur Jahan, MB College Associate Professor Dr Hamom Nabachandra, UKAL president Chanam Parihal Meitei, MIKAL secretary Nilamani Kha-Nganba, Thoyee village chief Ng Khating, Longa village authority secretary W Khelsong Koireng, social worker Leishangthem Inaocha, Moreh Meitei Lai Thougallup member N Manihar, Sibong village chief Chong-om Pacho Kom, Kangla Religious Committee member Chana Lukhoi, MNF president Pichung Anal and ICOP chief convenor Namoijam Tomba attended the observance.

Shumang Leela 'Kangleipakta 1709', was also staged during the observation.

Comment