Heirok remembers 2008 Thabal Chongpham victims on 18th death anniversary
Source: The Sangai Express

Heirok, March 24 2026: The 18th death anniversary of the tragic 2008 Thabal Chongpham shooting incident was observed on Wednesday with solemn floral tributes and large public participation, honouring the lives lost during the Yaoshang festival.

The incident, which occurred on March 24, 2008 - the fourth day of Yaoshang - claimed the lives of three residents, Thokchom Romesh, Thokchom Pfomila and Laishram Nirmala, leaving a deep and lasting impact on Heirok and the state.

Marking the occasion, a memorial programme titled "Enlightenment Day" was organised by the RPN Memorial Trust at the RPN Memorial Complex.

Heirok remembers 2008 Thabal Chongpham victims on 18th death anniversary

The event was attended by Heirok AC MLA Dr Thokchom Radheshyam, along with RPN Memorial Trust president Ningthoujam Samer and former president Thokchom Ranjan as presidium members.

The gathering, including family members of the victims, observed a two-minute silence in memory of the departed souls.

Floral tributes were later offered at the memorial graveyard.

Around 300 Special Police Officers (SPOs), recruited following the 2008 incident, along with members of Arambai Tenggol Unit 5, also paid their respects.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Radheshyam stated that the tragic incident would remain etched in the collective memory of Manipur and Heirok.

He reflected on the pain and grief endured by the families of the victims and stressed the importance of remembering the incident as a reminder of the need for peace and unity.

He further noted that the sacrifices of the victims led to significant developments in the State and the area, including the formation of Village Defence Forces (VDF) and the recruitment of 300 SPOs in Heirok, as well as the establishment of Heirok Higher Secondary School.

Calling for harmony, the MLA urged the public to uphold unity and collective responsibility to ensure that such incidents are never repeated in the state's history.

The programme was also attended by local councillors and pradhans of Heirok Assembly Constituency.