Manipur today observed the 25th Great June Uprising Day, also known as Unity Day, paying homage to the 18 martyrs who laid down their lives during the June 18, 2001 mass agitation to safeguard the territorial integrity of the state.
The observance, organised by the Observation Committee of the 25th Great June Uprising–Unity Day 2026 comprising the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) and the United Committee Manipur (UCM), was held at Kekrupat, where the last rites of the martyrs were performed 25 years ago.
People from various communities, civil society organisations, student bodies, women’s groups and families of the martyrs attended the programme. Traditional rituals, a general salute by Thang-Ta artistes and the offering of floral tributes marked the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Observance Committee Co-Convenor and UCM General Secretary Santa Nahakpam described June 18, 2001, as a defining moment in Manipur’s history and alleged that justice has yet to be delivered to the victims despite the passage of 25 years. He claimed that the findings of the CBI inquiry into the incident were never made public and that the case was eventually closed without accountability.
Drawing parallels with the ongoing conflict that began on May 3, 2023, Santa alleged that justice remained elusive for many victims of the violence and expressed concern over separate peace talks being held with different communities. He urged the authorities to ensure justice for all those affected by past and present conflicts.
Warning of possible public unrest, Santa said a movement similar to the June 18 uprising could re-emerge if the Government of India fails to address issues relating to Separate Administration, flag demands and other constitutional arrangements within a reasonable timeframe. He reiterated that the people of Manipur would continue to safeguard the state’s territorial and administrative integrity.
Speaking on the sidelines of the programme, BJP MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha Singh stressed that unity among the people remains the strongest weapon to overcome any challenge facing Manipur. Paying tribute to the martyrs, he said patriotism and nationalism stand above all else and that those who sacrifice their lives for the state and the nation attain immortality through their service. He added that any threat to Manipur’s territorial integrity could be overcome if the people remained united.
MLA Sapam Nishikanta also paid floral tributes to the martyrs and called for peace, love and understanding among different communities, stating that harmony and mutual trust are essential for restoring normalcy and ensuring lasting peace in the state.
The Great June Uprising Day is observed annually in remembrance of those killed during protests against the extension of the NSCN (IM) ceasefire agreement “without territorial limits” in 2001, a move that triggered widespread demonstrations across Manipur.
