RK Meghen calls for retrospection on threats to territorial integrity
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 23 2024: RK Meghen alias San-ayaima emphasised the need for retrospection to understand the factors emboldening groups, once refugees, to challenge Manipur's territorial integrity.

He noted the firm resolve of the youth to sacrifice their lives for their motherland but stressed the necessity of stable and effective leadership to guide them on the right path and prevent them from straying.

He was attending the unveiling of the statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Nara Singh, and soldiers of the Manipur Levy in a ceremony organised by Maharaja Gamblur Singh Memorial Committee, Chandrapur Cachar; United People's Front, Manipur; Manipur Youth Front of Assam; and Hingminnasi Manipur, at the Manipur Levy Ground, Chandrapur, Assam, on Monday.

The event began with the hoisting of the red flag used by the Manipur Levy, symbolising the valour and resilience of the Manipuri forces.

The ceremony featured Thang-Ta and other cultural performances.

Following these, the statues of the three historical icons were unveiled by the guests and organisers.

Speaking on the occasion, RK Meghen underscored the need for retrospection to identify the root causes of certain groups, who were once refugees, undermining and challenging Manipur's territorial integrity.

He called for stable and effective leadership to guide the youth who have come forward to sacrifice their lives for their motherland.

Without proper direction, he warned, these youths might stray from their purpose and determination.

He expressed concern over attempts by various groups to neutralise the Meetei community in a bid to disintegrate Manipur.

However, he affirmed that such attempts would fail, as thousands of dedicated youths, referred to as village volunteers, are ready to protect their motherland.

He also pointed out the necessity of understanding the reasons why groups that were once refugees have found the courage to challenge Manipur's territorial integrity.

According to him, the disunity among the government, civil society organisations (CSOs), and the public has contributed to this situation.

RK Meghen reminded the audience that the present territory of Manipur, as demarcated by the British, is much smaller than its historical expanse.

He called on the 'sons' and 'daughters' of the soil to take inspiration from the unveiled statues of their forefathers and stand firm in their duty to protect their community and territory.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Assam minister Kaushik Rai, UPF president N Rupachandra, Maharaja Gambhir Singh Memorial Committee president Keisham Bidyapati, Manipur Youth Front of Assam president Thangjam Brojen, UCM president YK Dhiren, UPF advisors Khomdram Ratan and L Jadumani, social worker N Budhachandra, and All Assam Manipuri Students Union president Ngaseppam Sanahal.

The presidium members emphasised the need to honour the sacrifices of historical figures like Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Nara Singh, whose contributions were pivotal in defending Manipur's sovereignty.

They called for collective efforts to ensure the preservation of Manipur's territorial integrity and cultural identity amid current challenges.

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