Patriots Day wishes
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 12 2020:
Governor Najma Heptulla has extended greetings and wishes to the people of Manipur on Patriots' Day, 2020 .
"The 13th day of August every year is observed as the Patriots' Day in the State in memory of those who laid down their lives in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.It was on this day, more than one hundred years ago that the British hanged our brave forefathers including Bir Tikendrajit for resisting their colonial design.
These brave souls made the supreme sacrifice for the love of freedom of their motherland.
Many of our forefathers who fought for the freedom of their motherland were also banished for life from Manipur.
All of them embraced death or prison willingly rather than lose freedom.
This day will remain of great historical significance to the people of Manipur as it changed the course of history of the State," the Governor said in her message.
"This day also reminds us that we only succeed when we stand and work together as starkly evident from the British craft of divide and rule which they effectively used to their advantage.
While observing the Patriots' Day, let us all take pledge to stand as one against all challenges to the freedom and integrity of our country rising above caste, creed or religion," she said.
Following the Governor, Chief Minister N Biren Singh also sent his greetings and wishes to the people on the occasion.
"On this day in 1891, Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General faced the gallows valiantly after taking leading roles in resisting the mighty British forces.
The day also reminds us of the supreme sacrifices made by hundreds of our soldiers, who fought against the British forces...
Our forefathers valued freedom and sovereignty of their motherland more than their own lives.
The present generation should not forget the highest acts of patriotism of our forefathers.
These thoughts should guide us in facing various forces acting within and without," N Biren said.
Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Y Khemchand Singh, Deputy Speaker K Robindro, Works Minister Th Biswajit and Forest Minister Awangbow Newmai too wished the people on Patriots' Day.