Fitting homage paid to 'human torch'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 16, 2010: A large number of people including school children and women turned up to pay homage and floral tributes to Pebam Chittaranjan Mangang on his 6th death anniversary today.

Chittaranjan set himself on fire at Bishnupur Bazar on August 15, 2004 at the peak of the mass protest launched against the rape and brutal killing of Thangjam Manorama by Assam Rifles.

He succumbed to his burn injuries the next day.

Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) organised the main function at THAU ground under the theme, 'Student's Martyrdom - Excel Right to Life'.

From early morning, braving the incessant rain, a large number of people converged at Bishupur Bazar and paid floral tributes to Chittaranjan.

Later in the day, a huge rally, participated by people from all walks of life, was taken out from Takhellambam Leikai to THAU ground.

Rally in honour of Chitarajan

Former Judge and Member of MHRC Lisham Rabindra, Senior Citizen for Society General Secretary L Sadananda, Prof W Nabakumar of Manipur University, Minorities Commission Secretary Md Raheijuddin Sheikh, Human Rights Alert Executive Director Babloo Loitongbam, former President of AMSU Moirangthem Jibanlata, former President of MSF Dr Kh Gourachandra and MSF President Laishram Ibomcha were the presidium members of the function held at THAU ground.

MSF General Secretary Anash Shah in his keynote address remembered how Chittaranjan decided to sacrifice his life for the betterment of the State.

To live after death is better than living as a death, the General Secretary quoted Chittaranjan and recalled that Chittaranjan set himself on fire on August 15, 2004 at Bishnupur Bazar in protest against the rape and brutal killing of Thangjam Manorama and draconian AFSPA.

Laishram Sadananda in his speech said that Chittaranjan sacrificed his life to protect the innocent lives of not only for North East India but also for the whole country.

Saying that AFSPA is an inhuman Act, Sadananda expressed wonder why democratic Government of India is still enforcing the Act in some parts of the country.

Saying that Irom Sharmila is crusading against the Act since past 10 years and Jeevan Reddy Commission had also recommended its repealation, Sadananda demanded the Centre for abolition of such an inhuman Act.

Former Judge Lisham Rabindra observed that AFSPA would not stay long as the Act is against the will of the masses.