Imphal, September 01: The 112th commemorative event of remembering Hijam Irabot which would be observed throughout September has begun from today.

The inaugural function was held at Irabot Bhavan here today with CPI National executive member and Health and Family Welfare Minister Ph Parijat, CPI State Control Commission chairman M Ibohal and State secretary L Iboyaima as presidium members.

To participate in the month-long event being organised under the aegis of Irabot Celebration Committee, CPI National Secretary AB Bardhan would be arriving at Imphal on September 4. On his arrival at Tulihal Airport, Imphal at 9 am, members of Students' Federation of India and Youth Front would welcome him along with a motor cycle rally.

In the afternoon of the same day, AB Bardhan would attend a discussion session at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Sanglen at Palace Compound on Hijam Irabot and his contribution in various fields like welfare of the farmers, literature, art and culture and the issue of territorial integrity of Manipur.

Speaking at the inaugural function of the commemorative month, Parijat observed that ringing out the message of Irabot and his contribution towards the upliftment of the poor and marginalised section of the society in every nook and corner of the State is essential at the present critical juncture when the people are being confronted with myriad problems.

Recalling the works done by Irabot, Parijat refreshed the memory of the people on how Irabot had to go underground and the Nikhil Manipuri Maha Sabha which was set up by him in 1948 was declared a political organisation by the then king slapping it with a ban.

However, today, with many social organisations taking keen interest on Irabot, the time has come when everyone wants to pronounce themselves as associates and followers of Irabot, the Minister said, adding that there is no other personality like Irabot with the Govt declaring public holiday on his birth and death anniversary to facilitate observation and discussion session.

Appreciating the contributions made by Irabot during his lifetime, State unit CPI secretary M Iboyaima described him as a social reformer.

In order to counter the impact of imperialism in the present time, it is imperative to understand the works and the ideals of Irabot, he said.

Ex-Minister RV Mingthing who was also present at the occasion, hailed Irabot as a man of discipline whose ideals should be understood and emulated by the present generation.

Comment