Pellet-riddled youth trains for Mr Manipur
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 20 2024: Uttam Soibam, a determined martial arts player who was severely injured by a pellet gun during a protest rally last September, is now training intensively to win the Mr Manipur title.

Despite enduring immense physical and emotional challenges, the 17-year-old remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence.

In an interview with The Quint, Uttam shared his journey of resilience and hope.

"My brother always wanted me to become a champion.

I regret that I failed to fulfil his wish because of the unfortunate turn of events.

However, I am determined not to break his heart.

One day, I will become a champion," Uttam expressed with unwavering determination.

According to text of the interview published by The Quint, when they first met Uttam on September 27, last year, at Raj Medicity Hospital in Imphal, the attending doctor revealed that over 60 pellets had been removed from his body, with 20 more still embedded in his head.

Despite undergoing two surgeries at Raj Medicity and additional treatment at Shija Hospital, Uttam's ordeal was far from over.

Seeking further medical advice, he travelled to AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) in New Delhi, where doctors advised against removing the remaining pellets due to the high risks involved.

Uttam's injuries were sustained during violent clashes between protestors and security forces in Imphal, triggered by the student-led protests after the discovery of the bodies of 17-year-old Luwangbi Linthoingambi Hijam and 20-year-old Phijam Hemanjit Singh, both Meitei students who had gone missing in July 2023.The conflict left hundreds of students, injured, including Uttam, a national-level Wushu player.

The severity of his injuries forced him to abandon professional participation in Wushu, including a missed opportunity at the recent Northeast Games.

However, Uttam refuses to give up.

He is now channelling his energy into bodybuilding, aiming to compete in the Mr Manipur contest scheduled for December 2024.Reflecting on his journey and the ongoing ethnic violence in the region, Uttam emphasised the importance of peace.

"The suffering caused by the year-long ethnic violence is widespread.

Peace is paramount," he said.

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