Khongjom Day marked in Manipur with tributes by Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Yumnam Khemchand Singh.
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IMPHAL — Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh led dignitaries in paying tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Battle of Anglo Manipur War (1891) while observing “Khongjom Day” at the Khongjom War Memorial premises at Khebaching, Khongjom, in Thoubal district.
They led the dignitaries in the ceremonial laying of floral wreaths at the memorial, followed by guard of honour, general salute, reverse arms, sounding of the last post, two minutes’ silence, slope arms and order arms.
Floral wreaths were also laid at the statue of Paona Brajabashi, followed by a gun salute in his honour.
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Tarpan was offered at the Khongjom River and homage to Sankirtana was paid by the VVIPs and VIPs.
Addressing the gathering, the governor stated that Khongjom Day remains a significant and emotional occasion, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the sons of Manipur who fought valiantly against the British Empire.
Highlighting that the Battle of Khongjom symbolises honour, patriotism, and unwavering determination, where Manipuri warriors, despite being outnumbered and ill-equipped, chose courage over surrender to defend their sovereignty, Bhalla noted that the sacrifices of the forefathers serve as a reminder that freedom and peace must be protected and upheld with responsibility.
He further called upon the people to uphold values such as integrity in public life, communal harmony, respect for the rule of law and commitment to the welfare of all citizens as true tributes to the legacy of the martyrs.
He also urged the people to work collectively for peace, development, and a stronger Manipur.
In his speech, the chief minister stated that the people of the state feel proud to live as Manipuri due to the bravery shown by their forefathers while fighting for their motherland during the Anglo-Manipur War 1891.
Recalling the unfortunate Tronglaobi incident on April 7, Khemchand expressed grief and sorrow. He further informed that the government had held talks with the Joint Action Committee and victim families on different occasions and proposed to extend all possible assistance.
Acknowledging that the people are staging protest at different places due to the sorrow and resentment caused by the incident, he appealed to the public not to resort to activities which would hinder developmental works and bring hardship and enmity among the people of the state.
He further expressed appreciation to the people of the state for making it possible to observe the Khongjom Day successfully, amidst protests staged across the state.
Earlier, the observation commenced with Sankirtan presented by artistes of Manipur State Kala Akademi with the rendition of the national song by artistes of Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Music College, followed by the national anthem by the First Battalion Manipur Rifles Band.