Prez to join Manipur’s anniversary event

Newmai News Network IMPHAL, April 20 Security in Manipur has been beefed up as the state decks up for the visit of President Pranab Mukherjee on April 23 to attend a state function commemorating the anniversary of Anglo-Manipur War of 1892. The Manipur kingdom lost its sovereignty after the Khongjom War fought against the British on April 23. It is also known as Manipur’s last war of independence. All preparations have been almost finished for welcoming the President, according to official sources. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh chaired a security preparatory meeting ahead of the President’s visit yesterday during which it was decided to allow paramilitary forces and Army to assist the state police in coordinating and controlling security arrangements for the visit. Mukherjee is scheduled to arrive at the Imphal Airport in the morning. The Chief Minister, Governor and Chief Secretary will accord the President a warm welcome at the airport from where he will fly to Kodompokpi Sports Ground by a special IAF helicopter. From there, Mukherjee will directly go to the venue at Kheba hillock, Khongjom in Thoubal district where he will unveil a huge tripod war monument constructed by Manipur Tourism Department. The President will also address the function. He will further offer tarpan in the Khongjom river to pay homage to the Manipuri war heroes on the occasion. On Wednesday, CM Ibobi inaugurated a 33/11 KV sub-power station installed by Manipur State Power Distribution Company Ltd (MSPDCL) at Khongjom ahead of the anniversary observation. Deputy CM Gaikhangam was also present during the function. 3 troopers injured in Manipur bomb explosions IANS IMPHAL, APRIL 20 THREE troopers were injured on Wednesday in Manipur when two powerful foreign-made bombs were detonated near Moreh, a town on the Myanmar border. The injured, belonging to the 11th Battalion of Assam Rifles, were evacuated to Imphal for treatment. Police and security forces did not rule out more insurgency related violence in the coming days. President Pranab Mukherjee is due to visit Manipur on April 23 for a state function commemorating the anniversary of the werstwhile Manipur kingdom’s last battle for independence against the British on April 23, 1891. Security has been tightened along the border areas ahead of the visit.