The Government of Manipur on Saturday observed Kargil Vijay Diwas at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) auditorium, Imphal, commemorating the courage and sacrifices of Indian armed forces during the 1999 Kargil War. The solemn occasion was attended by Members of the Legislative Assembly, senior officers from the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and state government departments.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla described the day as one of “eternal remembrance and gratitude” to the soldiers who laid down their lives defending India’s sovereignty.
“Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us that the sacrifices made by our soldiers remain immortal. India lost many of its bravest in defence of its territorial integrity and freedom. We remain forever indebted to them,” Governor Bhalla said.
He recalled that seven soldiers from Manipur had sacrificed their lives during the Kargil conflict and underscored the importance of honouring their legacy. “The battles fought in the harsh terrain of Kargil reflect the determination, resilience, and selflessness of our soldiers,” he added.
Referring to contemporary national security efforts, the Governor mentioned Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7 this year in retaliation to a Pakistan-sponsored terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Belgaum area. He said the operation destroyed nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, affirming India’s firm stand against terrorism.
A special tribute was paid to Deepak Chingakham of the 7th Battalion, BSF, who was martyred in the line of duty. As a mark of recognition, the state government has appointed his younger brother, Chingakham Naoba Singh, as an Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Manipur Police.
Governor Bhalla also addressed the ongoing unrest in the state, stating that the government has been taking a multi-pronged approach to restore peace and normalcy. He said combined operations by state and central security forces had led to the recovery of a significant cache of illegal arms and ammunition over the past few months.
“Efforts to curb extortion, cyber crimes, and illegal funding of armed groups are underway. Strategic checkpoints have been set up across the hills and valley to ensure uninterrupted movement of essential supplies,” he said.
On the humanitarian front, the Governor highlighted self-help group-led livelihood initiatives and state-supported training programmes aimed at rehabilitating displaced individuals. “Our focus is on restoring dignity, hope, and autonomy to those affected, especially through community engagement and institutional support like MSRLM and startup missions,” he added.
Governor Bhalla said that ongoing dialogue with civil society organisations across Meitei, Kuki-Zo, and Naga communities was vital for achieving voluntary and inclusive resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs). He called on all citizens to unite in the effort to build a peaceful and stable Manipur.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the Constitution, defending our sovereignty, and honouring the sacrifices made by our armed forces,” he concluded.
Also speaking at the function, Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Singh briefed on the security situation and the steps taken to restore order.
“Manipur Police, in coordination with central forces, has been conducting sustained operations across vulnerable areas. Thousands of looted arms, explosives, and ammunition have been recovered from both hill and valley regions,” he said.
The DGP further informed that regular patrolling, fencing along the Myanmar border, and the formation of special task forces have helped reduce infiltration and anti-social activities. Action has also been taken against illegal immigrants, and several new police outposts have been set up in sensitive zones.
Drug trafficking networks, he added, have been significantly disrupted under the state’s intensified enforcement efforts. Singh highlighted the surrender of over 1,000 illegal arms and explosives, many of which followed the Governor’s public appeal earlier this year.
“This is a positive indicator that people are distancing themselves from violence and embracing reconciliation,” he said.
Appealing to the youth, the DGP urged them to reject the path of conflict and dedicate themselves to the service of the state and the nation. “Your unity, courage, and discipline are essential in building a peaceful and progressive Manipur,” he added.
He concluded by thanking the people for their resilience, cooperation, and support during these trying times. “On this day of remembrance, let us renew our pledge to stand united against extremism and uphold the legacy of our brave soldiers.”