The Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF), Jiribam District Committee, observed Students Martyrdom Day on Sunday to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of student activist Pebam Chitaranjan.
The programme was organised at the auditorium hall of RK Sanatombi Vidyalaya, Jiribam, marking the 22nd death anniversary of Pebam Chitaranjan, who sacrificed his life on August 15, 2004, through self-immolation in protest against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA).
Students, youths, representatives of civil society organisations and local leaders attended the observance and paid floral tributes to the portrait of Pebam Chitaranjan. The gathering also observed a two-minute silence in honour of his sacrifice.
Speaking on the occasion, distinguished personalities and invitees recalled Chitaranjan’s protest against AFSPA and emphasised the importance of remembering his sacrifice and the issues he stood for among future generations of Manipur.
Principal of Jiribam Higher Secondary School, Kh. Indikumar Singh, said that the gathering was held to remember the supreme sacrifice of Pebam Chitaranjan, who fought for the repeal of AFSPA and sacrificed his life for the right to life.
He said laws are enacted for the welfare and protection of citizens, but if any law is perceived as harmful to the people, there should be a democratic effort to seek its review or repeal. Referring to AFSPA as a “black law,” he said many people had lost their lives amid protests and conflict surrounding such legislation.
Indikumar further urged people to raise their voices democratically against laws they believe violate basic rights and stressed the importance of creating awareness among students and youths about their rights and responsibilities.
He said the programme also served as an awareness initiative for students and youths, who are the future pillars of society, to understand and uphold democratic rights and work towards a peaceful future for Manipur.
Today’s programme was graced by Kh. Janaki Devi, Former Adhyaksha, Jiribam; Mutum Shyamkumar, Vice President of All Jiribam United Club Association; Kh. Indikumar Singh, Principal, Jiribam Higher Secondary School; Th. Priyadhasani Devi, President, AMAWOVA and Th. Samananda Singh, President, MSF, Jiribam District Committee as presidium members.
