AMGSU pays tributes to subedar Niranjan Chhetri
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 08 2025: All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union (AMGSU) on Sunday observed the 134th Saheed Diwas (Martyr's Day) at its Kanglatongbi office in remembrance of subedar Niranjan Singh Chhetri, the first Gorkha martyr in India's freedom movement.

As per a release by AMGSU, the day marks his martyrdom on June 8, 1891, when he was executed by the British colonial government for his involvement in the Anglo-Manipuri War.

Describing Niranjan as a man of discipline, courage, conviction and service, the release recalled that during the political turmoil in Manipur in the late 19th century, he aligned himself with the nationalist Cause, offering military support to Yubraj (Crown Prince) Tikendrajit Singh, one of the central figures of resistance against British intrusion.

AMGSU pays tributes to subedar Niranjan Chhetri

The Anglo-Manipuri War broke out in 1891, following British attempts to control the internal affairs of the Manipur kingdom and arrest Tikendrajit Singh, it maintained.

Subedar Niranjan Chhetri played a critical role in the defence of Manipur, leading a detachment under the command of Tikendrajit.

His military leadership, loyalty, and defiance against the British Empire marked him as a key figure in the resistance.

He was captured by the British and court-martialed for waging war against the Crown, sentenced to death and was hanged on June 8, 1891 at the Western Gate of Kangla Fort in Imphal.

AMGSU emphasised that though often overshadowed in mainstream Indian history, subedar Niranjan remains a revered hero among the Gorkha community.

The observance included floral tributes, candle lighting, and a one-minute silence to honour the martyr's sacrifice.

The event was attended by AMGSU president LB Adhikari and members of the Union.

In his address, Adhikari emphasised the need to recognise and preserve the stories of unsung heroes like Niranjan Singh Chhetri.

"Subedar Chhetri's life is a shining example of courage and patriotism.

It is our duty to ensure that future generations know his name and his contributions," he said.