Fitting tributes paid to Pebam Chittaranjan
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 16 2019: The 15th Death Anniversary of Pebam Chittaranjan, was observed today with people paying floral tributes at Bishnupur Keithel, Takhellambam Leikai and DM College ground, under the aegis of Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) .

At 7 am today, people paid floral tributes to the statue of the deceased at the Pebam Chittaranjan Mangang Memorial complex at Bishnupur.

A large number of people and students also paid floral tributes in honour of Pebam Chittaranjan at his residence at Takhellambam Leikai.

Fitting tributes paid to Pebam Chittaranjan

From the said locality, a mass rally was organised in which volunteers of MSF, student bodies and other CSOs, Meira Paibis and students passed Keishampat, Nagamapal and headed for DM College ground.

There, a public meeting was organised which was inaugurated with a Penna Seihou Eshei and Manipur Human Rights Commission acting Chairperson Khaidem Mani, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur president Longjam Memchoubi, All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO) president Phurailatpam Deban Sharma and MSF president Ngariyanbam Milan graced the meeting as the presidium members.

Speaking at the gathering, Khaidem Mani narrated that on August 15, 2004, Pebam Chittaranjan immolated himself demanding immediate repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1958 and he succumbed to his injuries the next day (August 16), and added that the people of the State need to respect and recognise the supreme sacrifice made by Chittaranjan for the people of Manipur against AFSPA.

He sacrificed his life for the people with the belief that the people of Manipur are not truly independent, Khaidem Mani said adding that even though India gained independence from the British, the people of Manipur are still living under the mercy of AFSPA till date.

Pebam Chittaranjan's sacrifice showed that the people of Manipur are not free and are ruled by the law which is responsible for many deaths, missing cases and rapes etc, he said, explaining that even some political leaders had suggested that AFSPA should be removed completely.

More than 1528 people have either been killed or have vanished due to the Act.

In 2004, Thangjam Manorama was picked up by Assam Rifles from her home at Bamon Kampu and she was later found raped and brutally murdered at Ngariyan Chingol.

AFSPA is also responsible for the infamous Khwairamband firing incident.

The complete removal of such an evil Act will be the best for all, he explained.

On the other hand, MSF president Milan said that events of August 15 and 16, 2004 will always remain in the minds of the people and the future generations.

He was a 21st century braveheart who became a human torch on behalf of the people of Manipur, Milan said adding that in the United Nations charter, the right to life is the most important right for humans.

Observing that one need not study or pursue any form of education if the right to life is violated, he showed respect to Chittaranjan who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the people.

Stating that MSF has organised many debates, painting and photography competitions, Milan informed that a football match will be held next month in honour of Pebam Chittaranjan.

Various awareness programmes will also be organised, he added.

Speaking at the meeting, Longjam Memchoubi said that when Pebam Chittaranjan lit himself on fire, he sent a message to the people that all the oppression and torture under the black laws should stop and that AFSPA should be removed immediately.

There have been two Nupi Lans and the third Nupi Lan will erupt against the torture and killing of innocent people under the black law, she said adding that the people should remain ever alert now because another Act, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, is coming to bring even more suffering to the people over and above the presence of AFSPA.

AMUCO president Ph Deban said that Pebam Chittaranjan immolated himself in order to spread the hard hitting message against torture and killing of innocent people under AFSPA and demanding the immediate removal of such an inhumane law.

Asking how independent the people of Manipur feel even though the country gained independence a long time ago, Deban said that it can be asked how much love and care the people from other States of the country will have for the people of Manipur.

It is imperative for the people of Manipur to work together as one to ensure the survival, development and independence of the State, he added.

A blood donation camp was also organised as a part of the observation today, followed by a candle light vigil in the evening.