Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 19 2010:
All those who would be coming to take part in the Khongjom Day observance at Khebaching in Thoubal district have been urged to come in their traditional dresses and not to think they are out on a picnic or for some festivities.
Addressing a press conference in this connection at Manipur Press Club here today, advisor of Progressive United Club Organisation (PUCO), which is an apex body of the clubs in and around Khebaching area like Irengband, Chingtham, Sapam and Tekcham area, Tombimacha Singh said that it is our duty to remember and pay homage to the forefathers who laid down their lives for the sake of safeguarding the independence of Manipur in the Khongjom war which was fought between the Manipuri soldiers and the British troops on April 23, 1891 .
In commemoration of the event, the Government of Manipur has been observing Khongjom Day on April 23 every year and the significance of the day should be understood by all of us.
However, over the past few years, it has been seen that those who come to take part in the observance function at Khongjom War Memorial Complex look upon it as some sort of festivities and dressed themselves as if they are on a picnic trip.
Such conducts may give a wrong interpretation of the event, Tombimacha said expressing deep concern.
PUCO may not be able to do anything to stop the people from such conducts but can only appeal to them to understand the significance of the day and come attired in their respective traditional dresses, he added.
Tombimacha further observed that participation of only Meetei community in the Khongjom Day is not complete.
People of other communities like Meetei Pangal, Tribals, etc must have surely fought against the British in the Khongjom war.
So, people of other communities should also be encouraged to take part in the commemorative function.