Anti-AFSPA activist and former Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF) adviser Pebam Chittaranjan was remembered on his 22nd death anniversary today, with students, family members and civil society representatives paying tribute to his memory and reaffirming the demand for repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Manipur.
The MSF observed the occasion as the 22nd Students’ Martyrdom Day 2026, commemorating Chittaranjan, who died on August 16, 2004, a day after he self-immolated in protest against AFSPA and demanded its withdrawal from Manipur.
Chittaranjan, then 28, had set himself ablaze on August 15, 2004, at Bishnupur while protesting the continuation of AFSPA. He was admitted to RIMS Hospital with severe burn injuries and succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The observance began with floral tributes at his memorial statue at the Students’ Martyrdom Complex at Thanilkhun village near C.I. College in Bishnupur district and at the site of his self-immolation near Bishnupur Market.
A mass silent rally was also organised from Imphal College to Takhellambam Leikai Youth Club, with a large number of students participating. Carrying placards demanding repeal of AFSPA, the participants marched silently before attending a public meeting at the concluding venue.
At another observance held at Kwakeithel Thounaojam Leikai, opposite Tiddim Ground in Imphal West, a two-minute silence was observed in memory of those who had sacrificed their lives for the cause of Manipur.
Speaking at the programme, MSF Observation Committee convenor Khaidem Rabikanta Khangamba described militarisation, repressive laws and state violence as mechanisms used to suppress movements challenging State policies. He termed AFSPA a repressive law and reiterated the demand for its repeal from Manipur.
Khangamba traced the origins of AFSPA to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Ordinance, 1942, introduced during British rule, and alleged that the continued deployment of exceptional military powers in the Northeast had contributed to human rights violations and suppression of democratic movements.
He said the declaration of areas as “disturbed” under AFSPA gives security forces extraordinary powers and alleged that their exercise has been associated with allegations of killings, torture, arbitrary detention, sexual violence, destruction of property and other abuses.
He maintained that militarisation and repressive laws had deepened the conflict between the State and movements representing differing political aspirations, and called for a political approach based on justice, dignity and the aspirations of the people.
The speakers and participants recalled Chittaranjan’s self-immolation as a symbol of resistance to AFSPA and said the annual observance sought to preserve the memory of those who sacrificed their lives while continuing the demand for repeal of repressive laws.