IT News
Imphal, Jan 30:
Manipur today observes Martyrs’ Day along with the nation to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. Also known as ‘Shaheed Diwas’ or ‘Sarvodaya Day’, this day honours those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. The day holds significance as it marks the 76th Death Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi -the Father of the Nation.
Miss Anusuiya Uikey, the chief guest of the event, led the gatherings in paying homage. She laid a wreath at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Memorial Hall in Imphal as the gathering remembered the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi in building India.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor reiterated the principles of Mahatma Gandhi which were filled with the spirit of love, non-violence, kindness, mutual brotherhood, and forgiveness, and appealed to all to follow and remember his teachings. Her speech also highlighted the need to bring peace in Manipur which has been marred by violence for over 8 months.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and top civil and police officials also laid wreaths at the Mahatma’s statue. During the observation, three Bhajans, Sumiran Karle Mere Mana, Vaishnav Jana to the tent, and Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram were sung. A siren was sounded from 10.59 to 11.0 am as a warning signal for observance of the two-minute silence. Another siren was sounded from 11.2 am to 11.3 as the closing signal. A two-minute silence was also observed as a mark of respect to the departed freedom fighters.
In the backdrop of the current violence in Manipur, which is still uncontrollable by the state government, it is the need of the hour to resort to non-violence, following in the path of Mahatma Gandhi and have parlay between the leaders of both communities that have been attacking and killing each other since May 3, 2023. These testing times also demand a more capable leader to douse the fire that has engulfed Manipur for the last nine months.
