AMUCO and UCM have completed preparations for the 25th Great June Uprising, Unity Day observance on June 18 at Kekrupat, Imphal.
Imphal, June 5:
Preparations have been completed for the observance of the 25th Great June Uprising, Unity Day on June 18, with the joint committee formed by the All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO) and the United Committee Manipur (UCM) set to pay tribute to the 18 martyrs who lost their lives during the historic 2001 uprising.
The observance will be held at the June Uprising Complex, Kekrupat, where floral tributes will be offered in memory of those who died during the mass movement that emerged in opposition to perceived threats to Manipur's territorial integrity after the Government of India extended the ceasefire agreement with NSCN-IM "without territorial limit".
Addressing media persons at the AMUCO office on Friday, YK Dhiren, Chairman of the Joint Committee on The Great June Uprising and Unity Day, said all necessary arrangements have been completed for the annual observance.
He stated that the programme would honour the sacrifices made by the martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of Manipur's integrity and collective identity. According to Dhiren, the occasion should also serve as an opportunity for the people of the state to strengthen unity and cooperation among the various indigenous communities and groups living together in Manipur.
He noted that for the past 25 years, the observance has been held to remember the sacrifices of the martyrs and to reaffirm the commitment of the people towards safeguarding the state's unity and territorial integrity.
The committee also stressed the need for collective efforts to build trust and harmony among different communities at a time when Manipur continues to face social and political challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, the committee's Vice Chairman S. Sanjay expressed concern over the prevailing situation in the state and called for efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability. He urged all stakeholders to work towards building a stronger and more inclusive Manipur while preserving the rights and identities of all communities.
Sanjay also raised concerns regarding the continuation of buffer zones and recurring blockades, stating that such measures contribute to divisions and hinder efforts to rebuild social cohesion. He called upon communities to engage in dialogue and reflection to address the challenges facing society and to work collectively towards long-term peace.
According to him, the observance of the 25th Great June Uprising, Unity Day should not only be a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives but also a reminder of the responsibility shared by all sections of society in shaping the future of Manipur.
The organising committee appealed to the public to participate in large numbers in the June 18 programme and join in paying homage to the martyrs of the historic uprising.
The committee stated that the observance would honour their sacrifices while reaffirming the collective resolve to uphold the unity, integrity and shared future of Manipur.
