Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, Gaikhangam has categorically stated that Manipur could not be broken down by the act of some malicious sections of people and their efforts to do so would remain futile as long as the people are united.
Addressing the gathering at the 119th Birth Anniversary of Jananeta Hijam Irabot organized by the Organising Committee of 119th Jananeta Hijam Irabot Birthday Celebration Committee at MDU hall as chief guest today, Gaikhangam said that since time immemorial people of different communities have been staying together harmoniously in the state and separation of the state along communal lines is an act of committing sin.
“We have to get together and bring together for a bright future of the state. All should have the sense of belongingness and responsibility towards the development of the state. We should live together, not kill each other,” said Gaikhangam, who is also the Home Minister of Manipur.
People of Manipur need to apply the teachings and lessons of Irabot in order to restore peace, tranquility and development in the state, Gaikhangam said, adding that the unrest in the hill districts is due to the dominance by narrow minded people and their efforts to disintegrate the state in the name of nationalism and patriotism.
He also appealed to the people to remember Irabot and his work and apply the same in life.
In his key note address, Kshetrimayum Santa, Convenor of Jananeta Hijam Irabot Birthday Celebration Committee said that Irabot was in support of joining the state of Manipur into the Indian Union but opposed the nature of the merger agreement.
The Chief Guest also released a book called ‘Lamyanba Irawat’ written by Telem Upendra Singh.
Floral tribute was also paid in front of the photo of Hijam Irabot Singh.
The Handicapped Development Foundation (HDF) Manipur also organized Lamyanba Hijam Irabot 119th Birth Anniversary Observation Cum Cultural Program of Children With Disabilities at Govt. Ideal Blind School, Takyel today.
During the fuction, SK Dev Verman, Principal Secretary, Social Welfare Govt. of Manipur, Dr Rangitabali Waikhom-MCS, Director and Deputy Secretary, Social Welfare Govt. of Manipur, P Gopendro Singh, Vice-Chariman, Handicapped Development Foundation and many well known persons were present as guests of the function.
Pre-metric merit scholarships for the handicapped students were also distributed to selected students during the function.
