Manipur pays tribute to martyrs

Imphal, Jun 18: Huge crowds of enthusiasts, from all parts of Manipur, converged at the Martyrs Memorial at Kekrupat here today to pay tribute to the martyrs who had sacrificed their lives during the June 2001 Uprising.

The sixth Great June Uprising was organised by the United Committee Manipur(UCM) to commemorate the June 2001 Uprising, when the people of Manipur had strongly protested the decision of the Centre to extend the ceasefire with the NSCN(IM) beyond Nagaland as it ''threatened the territorial integrity of Manipur.'' The All Manipur United Clubs Organisation also organised Unity Day at Thau ground, where ministers, MLAs, public leaders, student leaders and representatives of all communities living in Manipur attended the function dressed in their traditional attire.

Hundreds of people had started preparing for the functions since yesterday and the entire Martyrs Memorial complex was cordoned off by security personnel and volunteers in view of the large numbers of people coming to attend the function.

UCM sources said that during the uprising, 18 people, including a woman, were killed in firing by security personnel. The people burnt down all political party offices, Assembly Secretariat, chief minister secretariat and the quarters of ministers and MLAs.

All the 18 martyrs were cremated at Kekrupat where a memorial complex was constructed.

The observations began around 0500 hours with prayers being offered and general salute given to the martyrs. The families of the martyrs were also honoured.

The speakers at the function stressed the need to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur adding that there was need to maintain communal harmony among the 30 ethnic groups in Manipur.

Large number of security personnel were posted at all key positions and no vehicles were allowed near the complex.

UNI