Imphal: Manipur observed Patriots’ Day with solemnity as Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh led dignitaries, including Ministers, MLAs, and senior officials, in paying tribute to the heroes of the Anglo-Manipur War.
The day began with floral tributes at Hicham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom, and Thangal Temple, Palace Compound, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Kangla Uttra in the afternoon, attended by the Governor, Chief Minister, and other dignitaries.
The program continued at Shaheed Minar, where the Governor and Chief Minister, along with other officials, honored those who sacrificed their lives for the state’s sovereignty. A Guard of Honour was presented by the Manipur Rifles contingents, and floral tributes were also offered at the Memorial Stone of the exiled martyrs of the 1891 War.
In his address, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya emphasized the significance of Patriots’ Day as a source of unity and pride for the people of Manipur. He highlighted the importance of education and awareness in preserving the values of patriotism and resilience handed down by the ancestors.
The Governor remarked that this day serves as a reminder of the heroic acts during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, which demonstrated the courage of Manipur’s people in challenging the British Empire for their homeland’s freedom. He urged the current generation to honor these heroes by fostering a society that values peace, integrity, and progress.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, speaking as the program’s president, echoed the sentiment that nothing is more important than the motherland. He called for unity among the people of Manipur to achieve peace and development, setting aside all differences.
The Chief Minister reflected on Manipur’s history, noting that it was an independent kingdom before falling under British rule on April 27, 1891, following the Anglo-Manipur War. He recounted the execution of Yubaraj Tikendrajit and Thangal General on August 13, 1891, and the subsequent hanging of other brave leaders.
N. Biren Singh expressed hope for the future, urging everyone to work together to resolve the current conflict peacefully and honour the sacrifices of their forefathers. He acknowledged the hardships many in the state faced due to recent conflicts. He highlighted the Central Government’s support under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
The event was attended by the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, the Security Advisor to the Government of Manipur, the Director General of Police, high-ranking civil and police officials, and students, among others.
