29th death anniversary of Heirok Ibotombi observed
Delhi, Imphal mere spectators : Ibobi
Source: The Sangai Express

Thoubal, December 07 2023: Former Chief Minister O Ibobi has accused the ruling BJP Governments at the Centre and the State of simply watching the violence in Manipur like some sort of play and letting it continue instead of putting maximum effort to restore normalcy.

Ibobi made the accusation at the 29th death anniversary of former Minister Moirangthem Ibotombi (Heirok Ibotombi) held at Wangjing Kodompokpi Sports Complex, today.

The death anniversary was held under the theme "Hingshi amadi Hinghansi" which translates as "Live and Let Live" .

29th death anniversary of Heirok Ibotombi observed

At the event, Ibobi continued that killing people after holding them captive is the highest act of cowardice, giving direct reference to the murder of 13 Meetei youths at Leithao village in Tengnoupal on December 4 .

No human wants to stay out of their homes for more than two days, he said and expressed concern over the displaced people spending more than seven months of their lives at relief camps.

Saying that attacking civilians and their houses can only be done by cowards, Ibobi maintained that violence will only beget violence.

Ibobi appealed to the Government to exercise their authority and end the conflict at the earliest so that the people at relief camps can return to their places and restart their lives.

As part of the anniversary, the gatherings offered floral tributes to the photos of those who got killed amid the violent conflict in the State.

Cash assistance was also given to over 3,000 people who are taking refuge at different relief camps in Kakching and Thoubal from Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Internally Displaced Persons Relief Fund during the observance.

A blood donation camp was also held.

President of Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Charitable Trust former Minister Moirangthem Okendro appealed to one and all to stand against any form of violence to make Manipur a peaceful State .

He also appealed to the Government to understand the sentiments of the people and restore normalcy at the earliest.