Khurai Assembly Constituency MLA and former Minister of Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, said that remembering the sacrifices of Manipur’s forefathers who were exiled after the 1891 Anglo-Manipur War is a collective duty of the present generation and not a symbolic exercise.
Addressing a gathering at the northern gate of Kangla while flagging off a march organised by the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF), Manipur, to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Susindro said the freedom fighters who were deported to Kala Pani for defending the sovereignty of Manipur laid the foundation for the state’s identity and self-respect. He said initiatives such as this march help ensure that their sacrifices are not erased from public memory.
The MLA said the march to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where King Kulachandra and several other freedom fighters were exiled following the 1891 war, is a timely and meaningful step. He said such efforts would also enable other communities to understand the historical suffering, resistance and resilience of the people of Manipur. Expressing his support, Susindro said he fully endorsed the programme undertaken by PAWF.
On queries related to the political situation in the state, Susindro said decisions on the imposition or continuation of President’s Rule in Manipur rest with the central government. He cautioned against the circulation of unverified information and urged the media to rely on authentic sources while reporting on sensitive political issues, stating that misinformation could mislead the public.
Earlier, PAWF Secretary Rakesh Naorem said the march is being organised to honour Manipuri freedom fighters exiled to Andaman and Nicobar Islands after the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. He said 22 members of the forum are participating in the march, which will be observed from January 5 to January 13, with January 9 marking an important historical reference linked to the war’s aftermath.
Rakesh Naorem said Patriotic Writers Forum, Manipur, is a collective of writers and intellectuals working to preserve the historical and cultural identity of the Meitei people, with members across several northeastern states as well as neighbouring countries. He added that during the programme, floral tributes would be offered at sites associated with the exiled freedom fighters and efforts would be made to install memorial markers in their honour.
The flag-off programme was attended by PAWF President Naoroibam Khamba Luwang, Secretary Rakesh Naorem, former Vice President Sobita Mongjam and several members and sympathisers of the forum.