Rich tributes were paid to revolutionary leader Arambam Somorendra on his 26th martyrdom anniversary during a commemorative programme jointly organised by the Arambam Somorendra Memorial Trust and Social Standard Club, Khurai Nandeibam Leikai, at the memorial complex in Imphal on Wednesday.
The observance began with a two-minute silence, followed by the offering of floral tributes to the statue of the late leader. Members of the trust, club representatives, admirers and local residents gathered to honour his memory and reflect on his contributions to Manipur’s political, social and cultural life.
Speaking to media persons, former UNLF Chairman RK Sanayaima described Arambam Somorendra as a visionary revolutionary leader whose political ideology and unwavering commitment to the cause of Manipur continue to inspire many. He said Somorendra was among the prominent figures who carried forward the legacy of Lamyanba Hijam Irabot and played a key role as one of the founding leaders of the UNLF.
Sanayaima stressed that paying floral tributes alone was not enough and called upon the people to understand and uphold Somorendra’s political vision and ideals. Referring to the present situation in the state, he expressed concern over continuing violence and instability and observed that while illegal activities such as drug trafficking and smuggling have enriched a few individuals, ordinary people continue to face economic hardships. He appealed to all communities to work together for a peaceful, prosperous and harmonious Manipur.
As part of the observance, the Arambam Somorendra Memorial Trust released a leaflet highlighting the life and legacy of the late leader. The leaflet noted that Somorendra was born on July 12, 1935, at Sagolband Meino Leirak in Imphal and was educated at Churachand High School and D.M. College before obtaining a postgraduate degree from Pune University in 1963. He later devoted himself to promoting unity among the hill and valley communities of Manipur.
The leaflet further recounted his involvement in political movements, his six years in the underground movement from 1969, and his return to public life following the general amnesty of 1975. Thereafter, he dedicated himself to cultural, social and literary pursuits, contributing significantly to indigenous culture, women’s empowerment and the strengthening of ties among Meitei communities living outside the state.
Somorendra was fatally shot by unidentified assailants on June 10, 2000, while attending a seminar on Shumang Leela at Khurai Nandeibam Leikai.
Later in the evening, the Trust organised a memorial lecture and brainstorming session on human rights, conflict resolution, ethnic relations and grassroots feminism at Lamyanba Sanglen, Konung Lampak. Renowned feminist and human rights defender Dr. Roshmi Goswami delivered the keynote lecture. The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. Chungkham Sheelaramani, retired Principal of D.M. College of Science. Grace Thumra Shatsang, former president of Naga Women’s Union and Tangkhul Shanao Long, Dr. Ningombam Shreema of Nambol Sanoi College and Dr. Feroja Syed of DM University participated as discussants.