Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 18:
In remembrance of the supreme sacrifice made by 18 persons and the united stand of the people to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur, All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO) today observed 7th Unity Day at THAU ground, Thangmeiband.
However, the observance function had to be cut short following an instruction from the Government.
After offering floral tributes at the martyrs' memorial complex at Kekrupat where the mortal remains of all the 18 persons have been laid to rest, the function commenced at THAU ground at around 11 am along with participation of leaders of various communities including WS Lungshel Anal, S Mitenglen Kharam, Rev S Prem Vaiphei, P Prengcha Chothe, Thounoujam Iboyaima, Houmang Zou, LS Guite, Memchoubi, Saikhom Kamkanta, Md Abdul Kalam Inqlabi, Demang Haokip as presidium members.
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However, following an instruction issued by the Government to wind up the function before 2 pm, the observance function had to be concluded at around 2.15 pm.
All those who spoke during the function observed that as long as fratricidal killings take place, every efforts to bring together the people would be futile.
So all the groups of people living in Manipur should leave aside their differences and work together for bringing peace and unity.
Delivering his presidential address of the observance function, AMUCO president R Yangsosong Koireng said that the people of the North East including Manipur would not be able to forget the Bangkok Declaration announced by the Government of India in 2001 to inject venom among the people of the region.
He explained that the main purpose of observing Unity Day is not just to pay homage to all those who have laid down their lives for the cause of territorial integrity of Manipur but also to strengthen the bond of unity and emotional integration among all the people of Manipur.
Cautioning people against ethnic nationalism, he also came out strongly against fascist elements which are out to derail the process of unity and integrity in Manipur.
This is all because of lack of a strong Government, he said.
Inspite of all these, the people of Manipur are firm in their stand on the unity and integrity of Manipur, he said, while exhorting the people to strengthen their determination.
The 7th Unity Day was also observed today at Jiri Town hall.
Organised by All Jiribam United Clubs Association (AJUCA), the observance function was attended by president of AJUCA M Maipaksana, advisor of Apunba Jiri Meira Paibi Lup L Sorojini and president of All Jiribam Tribal Union Hena Vaiphei as presidium members.
Floral tributes were paid to the 18 patriots who laid down their lives for the cause of territorial integrity of Manipur.