Manipur I-Day observed all over : Past of Manipur recalled
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 14 2024: People observing the independence day of Manipur should not be seen as an anti- National or anti-Indian undertaking, said All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) president Ph Nando Luwang.

Like several others, AMUCO also observed Manipur's Independence Day at its office at Kwakeithel today.

The observance began after Nando Luwang hoisted the Manipur flag embossed with the symbol of Pakhangba.

Speaking at the function, the AMUCO president said that Kangleipak, the present day Manipur, existed as a sovereign kingdom in South East India for thousands of years and added that the people of Manipur need to trace the footsteps of 'our forefathers' who were able to take resolutions pertaining to the affairs of Kangleipak independently.

People have been observing August 14 as the independence day of Manipur for decades only to recount an important chapter in Manipur's history, he said and reiterated that observing the independence day should not be construed as an incitement of anti-National or anti-Indian feelings.

Saying that the seven year devastation popularly known as Chahi Taret Khuntakpa (1819-1826) was a dark period in the history of Manipur, he added that the Burmese people were driven out by 'our forefathers' and the sovereignty of Kangleipak was restored.

Nando Luwang further stated that Kangleipak enjoyed sovereignty for 46 years after the end of the Burmese occupation period.

Continuing that Manipur came under British rule for 56 years after the defeat in the Anglo Manipur of 1891, Nando Luwang added that Manipur became an independent Nation after the British left before it was merged with the Union of India.

It is difficult to understand whether the Government of India (GoI) sees Manipur as a part of the country or as their colony, he said.

It would be wrong to assume that the Government of India sending some developmental packages and subsidised rice is a sign of affection towards the people of Manipur, he added.

Saying that Manipur now is in a tricky situation, he appealed to every Manipuri to stand together to safeguard the unity and integrity of Manipur.

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