Imphal: Manipur paid rich tribute to Rani Gaidinliu, a freedom fighter of India on her 108th birth anniversary, Thursday.
Governor of Manipur La. Ganesan and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh led the people in paying floral tribute to the statue of the late freedom fighter at Rani Gaidinliu Park at Mantripukhri in Imphal East.
Speaking at the anniversary, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said it is a historical fact that Rani Gaidinliu played an important role in fighting against the British for an independent Manipur in those days.
He said that in recognition of her role in the freedom movement, the Union Government has been taking a number of steps to propagate her name and fame. The state government will also organise her birth anniversary as a state function next year.
He further said Rs. 15 crore has already been sanctioned for the development of a memorial in her birthplace, Nungkao, in the Tamenglong district. But, unfortunately, due to some issues, the development work is being delayed. On the development of Rani Gaidinliu Park, the Chief Minister said, creative changes can also be made to beautify the Park.
The Chief Minister continued that “we all should follow the footnotes of our departed leaders like Haipou Jadonang, Rani Gaidinliu, etc. as these leaders fought not only for independence but also fought for our dignity too.”
He said, their dedication is worth remembering, and we all should cooperate with each other in instilling a sense of patriotism in the younger generation. We should never follow distorted pieces of history, as this will weaken the social fabric. The Chief Minister appealed to the people to cooperate with the government in all aspects of development for a better Manipur.
Former Union Minister Professor Meijinlung Kamson spoke on Rani Gaidinliu’s early life and her struggle for independence. Ministers, MLAs, representatives of Civil society organisations, and women leaders from across the state attended the celebration.
Earlier, the Kabui Mothers’ Association (KAMA) submitted a memorandum urging the development of Rani Gaidinliu Park. Colourful cultural dances were also shown as part of the celebration.
