Manipur remembers Netaji on 117th B' day
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 23 2014 : A multitude of people including the grandchildren of Indian National Army (INA) war veterans on Thursday observed the 117th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the historic INA memorial complex at Moirang in Bishnupur district.

The INA/Azad Hind Fauz flag was unfurled for the first time at Moirang by Colonel Saukat Hayat Malik, commander of Bahadur Group on April 14, 1944 and designated the place as its headquarters.

It was from this headquarters, commanders of Japanese troops and their allies chalked out World War II strategies and operated to fight against the allied forces.

A large number of students mostly from Bishupur district participated in song competition on a single lyric titled "O Netaji, O Subhas." Besides, paying of fitting floral tribute to Netaji's statue marked the day.

The momentous song was penned by late Moirang AC MLA, M Manindra Singh whose son M Prithiviraj, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Affair and Sports and Tourism presided over the function.

Notably Prithiviraj is the nephew of late M Koireng, the first elected Chief Minister of Manipur and a freedom fighter (INA) .

Thousands of soldiers of both the clashing forces were killed and several others were maimed in various pitched battles across Manipur.

Though Manipur was one of the key World War II theatres, Netaji did not reach the State owing to the war's strategic difficulties as he was reportedly camping in a South-East Asian country when the US bombarded Heroshima and Nagasakhi.

Addressing the gathering, Prithiviraj dwelt at length Netaji's never-say-die spirit energised in his selfless struggle to achieve India's freedom.

The MLA also urged the people to emulate Netaji's true dedication and patriotism in bringing about a peaceful and developed Manipur.

Works Minister Kh Ratankumar Singh, chief guest of the occasion, also gave a brief account of Netaji's freedom struggle.

Considering its historical significance, the INA complex is one of the key tourist spots of the State.

Besides a conference hall and other office apartments, the complex located at the heart of historical Moirang town also houses a war museum.

WW II veterans and their family members and large number of foreign and Indian tourists often visit the INA complex.

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