Manipur Observes Patriots' Day with Solemn Tributes to Anglo-Manipur War Heroes

Manipur commemorated the Patriots' Day remembering the valiant patriots who laid down their lives in defending the sovereignty of their motherland. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the people in paying tribute to Anglo-Manipur War heroes. First Lady Governor, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, DGP and other civil and police officers also paid tribute to the warriors.

The observation started with floral tributes at Heecham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom and Thangal Temple, Palace Compound in the morning. Later in the afternoon, Governor with other dignitaries attended the wreath laying ceremony at Kangla Uttra.

The programme continued with floral tributes at Shaheed Minar, where the Governor accompanied by MLAs and senior government officers, honoured the brave souls who laid down their lives in defence of the state's sovereignty. A Guard of Honour along with gun salute was accorded by the contingents of Manipur Rifles. Floral tribute was also offered at the Memorial Stone of the exiled martyrs of the 1891 War.

Speaking at the event, Governor honoured the brave heroes who laid down their lives in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, a pivotal moment in the Manipur’s history. He highlighted the courage and sacrifice of Yuvaraj Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Paona Brajabashi, and countless unnamed warriors who stood firm against the British, defending the dignity and sovereignty of their motherland. Governor emphasized that their unwavering spirit and moral courage continue to inspire generations.

Governor continued that Patriot’s Day is not merely about remembering the past, it is about carrying forward the ideals for which our heroes laid down their lives. The true tribute to the martyrs lies not only in floral offerings but in ensuring that the solidarity they fought for continues to bind us together.

Governor further said that, the state is now at the crossroads where the lessons of our past must shape our future. The state has faced many challenges in recent times but the courage and the resilience of our people continue to inspire hope, peace and stability in the state. 

Governor urged the people to renew the pledge, to follow the ideals of our forefathers, to strengthen the bond of unity and to work together for a stronger, peaceful and prosperous Manipur. He continued that unity is our greatest shield and the youth is our most powerful weapon for change. The state is in close collaboration with the Central Government and local communities to restore peace, advancing development and promoting inclusive development across the state, he added.

Chief Secretary, Dr Puneet Kumar Goel, said, the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 highlights the unwavering spirits and the moral stand of Manipur’s warriors against the British. The day serves as a reminder of the values of freedom, unity and the ongoing commitment to the progress and the development of the state. The courage and the resilience of the people of Manipur inspire hope for peace and stability despite recent challenges. He continued that Manipur’s diversity is the strength and unity is essential for building a better future.

He urged the youth to contribute to a peaceful and prosperous Manipur, upholding values of courage, integrity and unity. The state government is committed to education, healthcare and infrastructure development also with youth empowerment to foster inclusive growth and strengthen governance.

As part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Governor led the people in taking a pledge to stand united in the fight against the growing menace of drug abuse in the state.

MLAs, Security Advisor, Director General of Police, high ranking civil and police officials and students attended the programme among others.