Tributes paid to Wangkhei Meiraba, soldiers
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kakching, April 23 2024:
As done every year, the 133rd death anniversary of Wangkhei Meiraba, who attained martyrdom in the Anglo-Manipuri War-1891, was held at his memorial site located at Manao Ching, Kakching on Tuesday.
The memorial event organised by People's Museum, Kakching was marked by offering of floral tributes to Wangkhei Meiraba and his 20 soldiers as a mark of respect for their supreme sacrifices for the motherland.
Kakching former MLA Yengkhom Surchandra, who is also president of People's Museum, Kakching Municipal Council caretaker chairperson Naorem Sanjitkumar, caretaker councillors Kshetrimayum Kennedy, People's Museum secretary Merina Mayanglambam and others took part in the commemorative event.
Speaking on the occasion, Surchandra recounted the events of 1891 when the British attacked Manipur from three directions and deployment of Manipuri troops to confront the invading British forces.
Wangkhei Meiraba, as part of the team entrusted to protect Manipur and tackle the British soldiers advancing from the Tamu side, reached Kakching Chumnang Pat on April 22, 1891, where they set up camp.
However, upon learning about their presence, the British launched attack the following day, resulting in the martyrdom of Wangkhei Meiraba and his troops.
Surchandra also contended that the battle of Khongjom on April 25, 1891 is well documented in the British records and other historical accounts.
However, the observance of Khongjom War on April 23 has raised questions, the truth of which will be revealed with time, he said.
While highlighting the importance of Manao Ching where Wangkhei Meiraba and his unknown 20 soldiers laid down their lives for the motherland during the 1891 battle, Surchandra emphasised the need to protect, preserve and enhance landscape of the location.
It is worth noting that People's Museum has been commemorating the event every year, initially under the auspices of the Directorate of Social Welfare and the Art and Culture Department.
However, of late, the Museum has been solely organising the event.