80th Manipur Independence Day observed in Bishnupur, Thoubal, Jiribam
Source: The Sangai Express

Bishnupur/Thoubal/Jiribam, August 14 2026: The 80th Manipur Independence Day was observed at various places in Bishnupur, Thoubal and Jiribam districts on Friday, commemorating Manipur's history of sovereignty and paying tribute to those who fought against British rule.

In Bishnupur, the observance was held at Ningthoukhong Keithel Thongkhong, jointly organised by UCOBID, MPAL, AMWOVA, BISCO, Manipur Students' Federation (MSF) and Anti-Drug Bishnupur District.

UCOBID president W Basanta, secretary Longjam Premjit, MPAL president N Thamballeima and secretary RK Sachi, AMWOVA president H Sharmila and members of various organisations attended the programme.

The observance began with the singing of the Manipur State Song, followed by hoisting of the Manipur flag bearing the Pakhang Paphal and paying of respects at its base.

Speaking on the occasion, UCOBID secretary Longjam Premjit said the observance was aimed at fostering patriotism and love for the motherland, besides instilling the strength and courage to safeguard it through peaceful coexistence and harmony.

The gathering also raised slogans including "Stop attempt to obliterate Manipur", "Self-determination is our birthright", "Repeal AFSPA, 1958" and "Terrorists must stop killing innocent civilians immediately".

In Thoubal district, the day was observed at the residence of Ningthoujam Diten Singh located at Heirok Pt-III, an intending candidate of the People Democratic Alliance (PDA) for Heirok Assembly constituency.

Held under the theme "Celebrating the Spirit of Freedom, the programme was PDA State working president L Seth, Heirok AC intending candidate Ningthoujam Diten Singh, PDA State secretary Haobam Robindro Singh, Professor of History at Khongnangthaba University Dr Keisham Bheigyachandra and Wabagai AC PDA intending candidate Mayengbam Ojit attended the programme as presidium members.

The programme featured hoisting of the Pakhangba flag and a two-minute silence in honour of the martyrs of the Anglo-Manipuri War.

Thang-Ta and cultural performances were also held.

Speaking on the history and significance of the occasion, Dr Keisham Bheigyachandra elaborated on the history of Manipur, from the British invasion through the Anglo-Manipuri War and the eventual departure of the British, while underscoring the importance of remembering the State's history and its struggle for freedom.

The day was also marked at Waithou, organised by the Waithou Apunba Meira Paibi and WEYA Club.

In Jiribam, the 80th Manipur Independence Day was observed at the DESAM office, jointly organised by the HERICOUN Jiribam District Council, Women Association for Socio Economic Development (WASED) and Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur (DESAM).

The programme featured hoisting of the red Manipur flag and solemn tributes to the forefathers who fought against British rule.

Speaking on the occasion, HERICOUN Jiribam president S Sainik Kumar said the day was observed not only across Manipur but also beyond the State to honour the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.

He said the courage and contributions of the departed forefathers continue to live in the hearts of the people of Manipur and stressed the need to preserve the memory of the historic day for future generations.

He added that observing the occasion and passing its significance to future generations was an important collective responsibility.

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