First day of elected Govt in Manipur recalled
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 18 2018:
Law & Legislative Minister L Jayantakumar has called for unification of all the ethnic communities in the State and to work under the common vision of forming a powerful and developed Manipur.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the observation of 3rd Manipurgee Puwarida Meeyamgee Leingak Leikhiba Numit (the day when Manipur had its first Peoples' Government) which was organized by Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK) at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, today.
Opining that Minister that it is high time for all to unite and sort out all differences so that the State can progress forward, the Minister added the present generation needs to be aware about the historical events and incidents which took place in the State in the past and to learn valuable lessons from the past mistakes.
Lamenting that the rich customary laws of the Meitei society which were passed down by the forefathers have not been recognized by the competent authority, the Minister claimed that this is mainly due to the failure of the Meitei community to sustain their customary laws.
He then stressed on the importance of grooming the children and youths of the State while noting that the lack of proper guidance and support have prevented many youth and children with potential from excelling.
The Minister further expressed belief that there will not be anyone to compete with the State if all the communities unite and work hard under a common vision for growth.
Delivering the presidential speech at the function, CCSK president Arjun Telheiba conveyed that the observation of the day for having the First Peoples' Government of Manipur is the most significant and historic day which needs to be recalled by the people of the State, particularly the youngsters.
He observed that the day when Manipur received its first Government is one of the most remarkable days, as the entire history of the State mainly comprises of sad periods like the seven years devastation and the defeat in the Anglo Manipuri War.
He informed that Manipur became the first kingdom in Asia to establish a Government formed by elected representatives while reminding that the first sitting of the peoples' elected representatives (through universal franchise) was held on October 18, 1948 and informed that Manipur was not a part of the Indian Union at the time.
The function was also attended by Manipur Human Rights Commission Acting Chairman Khaidem Mani, retired Professor N Joykumar and former Minister RV Mingthing as the guests of honour.
Many other resource persons also spoke during the function and an interactive session was also held later in the afternoon.