Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister, N Biren Singh greeted the people of Manipur on the occasion of Khongjom Day, 2024.
In her message, Governor Uikey said that “Khongjom Day is celebrated on April 23 every year in Manipur remembering the supreme sacrifices made by our forefathers who died for the freedom of their motherland”. “Displaying tremendous courage and immense patriotism for their motherland they fought against the mightiest power of the world without even a thought of surrender”.
“On this occasion, while paying homage to the valiant heroes who fell at the battle of Khongjom and other fronts in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, we must renew our vow to preserve and defend the sovereignty of our country and prepare to face any challenge that might come our way. Let us forget any differences and re-dedicate ourselves to the task of nation-building. Let us strive for bringing understanding peace and harmony amongst ourselves so that every citizen is free from wants”, the Governor’s message added.
In his message on the occasion, Chief Minister Biren stating that hongĵom Day has immense significance for the people of Manipur, he recalled how on this day in 1891, valiant Manipuri soldiers led by Paona Brajabashi fought a fierce battle with British forces at the southern fringes of Manipur valley at Khonorum.
Chief Minister Biren said that the courage and heroism of Paona Brajabashi and his soldiers is of utmost relevance today when the state is faced with divisive forces who are bent upon destroying the State’s age-old fabric of harmonious living.
He called on all “to resolve to stand in unison for a united Manipur and to work together in facing all evils that stand before us today”.
Transport department deploys 13 MST buses
Meanwhile, the State Transport department has deployed 13 MST buses for transportation of government staff, general public and devotees from Imphal to Kheba Ching for Tuesday’s programme.
Two buses will be deployed at the Public School, Koirengei and then will pass through Chingmeirong, Thangmeiband Road, Nagamapal, Wahengbam Leikai, Keishampat, Pishum thong, Singjamei, Lilong, Thoubal and Khongjom. The buses will start the journey at 6.30 am, a statement issued by Dr Nivedita Lairenlakpam, Director, Transport department said.
One bus will be deployed at DC Office, Porompat and will pass through Soibam Leikai, Andro Parking, Wangkhei, Kongba, Singjamei Thong, Lilong, Thoubal and Khongjom.
Likewise, two buses will ferry passengers from Lamboikhongnangkhong ground to Tera, Sagolband, Kwakeithel, Pishumthong, Heirangoithong, Hiyangthang, Samurou, Wangoi, Mayang Imphal, Wabagai, Kakching and Khongjom.
On the other hand, five MST buses will be utilized from MST Complex, Moirangkhom to Khongjom via Singjamei. The department will also provide another five MST buses which will start from the Eastern side of 1st MR ground, Babupara. All the buses will begin their journey between 6 am to 8 am.
