Imphal: Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister N Biren Singh greeted the people of the State on the occasion of Republic Day, January 26, 2024.
In her message to the people of the state, Governor Uikey said , “tt was on this day in 1950, that we gave ourselves a Constitution which is the guiding principle of our country”. Stating that despite reservations from various quarters, she said the experiment of democracy in India has been successful and we are going from strength to strength, respected by other nations”. Governor called on all to “revere and pay our homage to those founding fathers for their foresight and understanding”.
“Despite its large population, many of whom were illiterate, successive elections have shown the maturity of the electors and the aspirations of the people are reflected in the ballotA. From a fledgling democracy, we have now become a mature one “.
“India is poised to become one of the leading nations of the world. Its progress in science and technology backed by a young and dynamic population will usher the country to greater heights. We have, however, to harness the potential of our youth in the right direction so that they become our main assets for the future. Let us all strive to work together to make our country strong peaceful and prosperous, free from wants”, she added.
On this auspicious occasion, she urged all to re-dedicate themselves to uphold and promote the secular, socialist and democratic values enshrined in our Constitution and work collectively to make our country great.
Chief Minister of Manipur, N Bire Singh in his message said, “Republic Day 2024 provides each one of us an occasion to reflect on where, we as a people, stand today and where, we would like ourselves to reach in the next 10 years, 25 years and so on”. “As we reflect, we are compelled to think of what many possibilities we could have achieved, were it not for the hiatus on account of this law and order scenario in our State”.
“We were witnessing progress across many sectors: infrastructure, power, information technology, roads, water, education, health, inclusiveness and many others.The conflict that began in May last year has pulled us back many years behind. Rebuilding physical structures and houses is one thing. Rebuilding lives and rebuilding bonds is another. The State Government recognises this”.
Stating that the State Government has to be, and is a neutral entity, he said that it believes in equality and justice for all. “Government cannot take sides in a conflict of the nature that Manipur is passing through today. It is with belief in these principles enshrined in the Constitution of India that we will leave no stone unturned in bringing back peace and normalcy to the State”.
“Republic Day 2024 has a greater significance for our brothers and sisters braving the winter in relief camps and other temporary shelters. The cold of the night must not drive them, or the youth of Manipur, towards thoughts and actions that find no place in the scheme of the Constitution of India. This is the biggest challenge that we face today and one, which we will hopefully overcome if we work together as one people and believe in the power of forgiveness for our own neighbours. And together, we must”, he added.
