JSCC urges youth to be aware
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 14 2026: The Joint Students' Coordination Committee (JSCC) has urged the younger generation of Manipur never to forget that Manipur existed as a vibrant kingdom for thousands of years in South East Asia before its merger with India.

JSCC, an apex body of All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU), Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF), Students' Union of Kangleipak (SUK) and Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA), observed the 80th independence day of Manipur today.

The observance which was attended by students and teachers of Pioneer Academy began by hoisting a white flag embossed with the symbol of Ibudhou Pakhangba.

Addressing the function, JSCC convenor Seram Hemjit, who is also the president of KSA, shared a brief history of Manipur.

He said the ancestors of Manipur fought the British against all odds to safeguard the sovereignty of the erstwhile kingdom.

Following its defeat in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, Manipur came under British rule, he said and added that Manipur regained its independence on August 14, 1947 .

Emphasising the need to instil a sense of patriotism among students, Hemjit said, "We should never forget the valour of our ancestors, who chose to die on the battlefield rather than live under anyone's rule" .

Hemjit, meanwhile, stated that Manipur has been grappling with the issue of illegal immigration.

Saying that students are the future of the State, he urged them to remain vigilant and play an active role in safeguarding the interests and identity of Manipur.

MSF president Hijam Roshan claimed that the people of Manipur have been deprived of the right to life and other fundamental rights since the State's merger with India.

He further alleged that Indian politics has created divisions among the people of Manipur.

The ongoing crisis has severely affected the State's economy while the Government is still unable to facilitate free movement across the State, he added.

AMSU president Lukram Malangba said that Manipur is a land of people who do not want to live under anyone else's rule.

Saying that younger generations need to know that Manipur was once an independent kingdom, he appealed to the gathering to contribute towards building a peaceful, prosperous and united Manipur.

SUK president Ningthoujam Dhanakumar Meitei said that Manipur regained its independence from British rule a day before India attained independence.

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