WMO notes importance of Aug 13, 14
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 12 2025: World Meitei Organisation (WMO) has called on the people of Manipur to ensure that the "true history" of August 13 and August 14 is taught to future generations and commemorated with the importance it deserves.

In a press release issued by media coordinator RK Leishomba, the organisation warned that if the history is not passed down, it risks imminent obliteration.

The statement recalled the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, wherein Meetei warriors, vastly outnumbered and armed only with swords and spears, fought against the British Empire's advanced weaponry, leading to brave-hearts martyred in the battlefield, culminating with the execution of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General on August 13, 1891 .

Their public hanging at Sanakeithel Pheidabung is remembered today as Patriots' Day.

Although Manipur came under British control, it retained a semi-independent status as an international protectorate, with Maharaj Churachand recognised as king.

The release stated that on August 14, 1947, the British returned sovereignty to Maharaj Bodhchandra, with the day marked as Manipur Independence Day by those advocating for the state's self-determination.

WMO said both dates carry deep historical significance: August 13 symbolising the ultimate sacrifice for freedom, and August 14 representing the restoration of sovereignty.

It urged that the days not be reduced to holidays but be used to instil nationalism and patriotism in the younger generation.

The organisation appealed to schools, colleges, local clubs, Meira Paibis and the general public to give more prominence to these two days, stressing that the people of Manipur must remember they once ruled their land in complete freedom.

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