Manipur veterans donate blood, appeal for peace
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 25 2026: In a powerful display of solidarity, over 100 ex-servicemen from across Manipur gathered today at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) to donate blood for victims of the ongoing State violence and to issue a collective plea for peace.

The initiative was led by high-ranking retired officers, including Lt Gen K Himalaya Singh (retired), Lt Gen L Nishikanta Singh (retired), and Brig L Ibotombi Singh (retired).

The camp was organised with support from the RIMS Medical Superintendent, the Armed Forces Ex-servicemen Association of Manipur (AFESAM) and the Rajya Sainik Board, Manipur.

Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Himalaya emphasized the military's tradition of unity above communal lines.

"We have served the Nation together, irrespective of community or creed.

Today, we stand together again to heal, not to hurt.

Our blood does not differentiate people, and neither should we", he said.

The veterans appealed for peace and normalcy in Manipur.

They condemned all killings in the State, including those of uniformed personnel and violence targeting civilians.

The veterans also pledged to contribute one day's pension to support the family of the late Havildar Chinaoshang Shokwungnao (retired) and victims of the Tronglaobi incident Brig Ibotombi announced a candlelight vigil to honour those killed and continue the call for peace.

Col Puyam Gopendra (retired), Col Sapam Shanti Kumar (retired), Col SK Sharma, Col S Bhatia, Col H Gojendro and Lt Col Sanajaoba were also present.

The event concluded with participants citing the Defence Forces' ethos of "Service Before Self' and expressing hope that the initiative would aid reconciliation.

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