A large number of people gathered at Cheiraoching in Chingmeirong, Thangmeiband, today morning to pay floral tributes to the martyrs of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the armed wing of the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), on the occasion of “Athoubasinggi Numit” (Martyrs’ Day).
Since around 5 am, relatives, friends, and members from different communities visited the memorial complex to offer homage to the slain cadres. Family members of the deceased had reportedly obtained permission from the High Court of Manipur to carry out the tribute at the site.
Floral tributes were paid in remembrance of PLA members who lost their lives in encounters with Indian security forces at Kodompokpi and other locations. Similar observances were also held at memorial sites in Kadampokpi and Tekcham.
The day commemorates the killing of seven PLA cadres in an encounter at Tekcham on June 16, 1981, and nine cadres in another encounter at Kadampokpi on April 13, 1982. The nine individuals killed in the Kodompokpi incident were identified as Thoudam Kunjabihari, Thoudam Loken alias Amujao, Paka, Pakhanglakpa alias Puki, RK Khoiromba alias Gyane, Sorokhaibam Kameshwor alias Kanta, Khundrakpam Chaobhan, Naorem Rajen, and Moirangthem Premkumar.
April 13 is observed annually by the RPF as “Athoubasinggi Numit” to commemorate the sacrifices of its cadres.
In a statement issued by Deputy Secretary (Publicity) Roben Khuman, the RPF conveyed greetings to those who took part in the observance across various memorial sites, including Cheirao Ching. The organisation acknowledged the participation of elders, women, youth, clubs, associations, institutions, and organisations, as well as members of bar associations, government employees, human rights groups, and teachers and students.
The statement also expressed appreciation to electronic media personnel, transport workers, and healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and staff, along with local volunteers for their support during the observance. It further acknowledged the role of Manipur Police personnel in facilitating the smooth conduct of the programme.
According to the statement, the sacrifices of the martyrs continue to inspire the people and serve as a reminder of their commitment. It added that remembering their contributions remains a shared responsibility and urged the public to uphold their legacy with sincerity.