Students' community recall Aug 16
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 16 2011: The students community today joined hands in observing the 7th death anniversary of Pebam Chittaranjan, who self immolated during a protest demanding total repeal of the draconian Armed forces' Special Power Act 1958 in 2004 .

Under the aegis of Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) the observance programme, that commenced from the Takhellambam Leikai residence of Chittaranjan with offering of floral tribute, was also held at THAU ground (Thangmeiband), Kiyamba Shanglen in Bishnupur district and Jiribam Higher Secondary School, where the people joined in paying obeisance to the departed soul.

Chittaranjan, it may be recalled, had poured inflammable liquid and set himself afire on August 16 six years back at Bishnupur district headquarters during which the state witnessed intense agitation against continuous imposition of AFSPA and sparked by the alleged rape and extra-judicial killing of Thangjam Manorama Devi by Central security forces.

Chittaranjan succumbed to injuries at RIMS Hospital on August 16 .

Students take out a rally to mark the day

speaking at the observance held at THAU MSF secretary general Anash Shah said the Pebam Chittaranjan's sacrifice is being commemorated to not only highlight suffering of the people from the impact of 'black laws' but to also demand right to life of the common citizens.

Born in Takhel Leikai and brought up in Bishnupur Chittaranjan's supreme sacrifice is a stark reminder to all concerned that the people of Manipur is determined to live a secured life rather than remain alive under subjugation, shah asserted.

Social worker Thounaojam Iboyaima, who also addressed that gathering stressed on unity amongst various communities to defy adversary elements and expressed confidence that through unity of the people Manipur's emotional and territorial integrity could be protected.

Presidents of student bodies such AMSU's Thokchom Suresh, DESAM's LC Santosh, Kangleipak Students Association's Y Pradeepkumar and MSF's Laishram Ibomcha also spoke at the occasion in addition to a number of Apunba Lup functionaries raising strong opposition against the AFSPA.

At Jiribam, Jiri branch of MSF organised the anniversary at Jiribam Higher Secondary School under the theme 'To excel, Right to Life' .

a rally participated by about 300 students from different educational institutions took part in the observance.