The ideals and vision of Lamyanba Hijam Irawat, who worked tirelessly to unite the people of different communities residing in different parts of Manipur and bring them together as one, should continue to guide the people of the State today, said Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. He also called upon the people to remember and honour the ideals and vision cherished by Lamyanba Irawat and ensure that these continue to inspire future generations.
The Chief Minister stated this while speaking at the 75th death anniversary observance of Lamyanba Irawat, organised jointly by the Department of Art & Culture and the Irawat Memorial Charitable Trust at the Lamyanba Irawat Statue Complex, Pishumthong Oinam Leikai, Imphal, today.
Recalling the contributions of Hijam Irawat to the people of the State, the Chief Minister said that Lamyanba Irawat had raised his voice against the oppressive British rule and the prevailing social and political conditions from the 1930s onwards. At a time when the idea of bringing about change in Manipur and building a more just society had yet to take shape, he sacrificed his own interests and dedicated himself to the welfare of the people, leading several movements and struggles. He also worked towards fostering a sense of unity among people belonging to different communities and living in different parts of the State.
He further said that the valuable legacy left behind by the great leader should be carried forward by the present generation. The love and dedication that Lamyanba Irawat had for his homeland and his people, along with his vision and ideals, have enabled the rich cultural identity of the Manipuri people to gain recognition before the people of the world.
Khemchand Singh further stated that the leader’s vision of maintaining harmony among the different communities of Manipur and strengthening the feeling of belonging to the land should continue to be upheld. He reiterated that the people must continue to learn from and carry forward the progressive outlook and ideals of Manipur’s great leader.
At the 75th death anniversary observance of Lamyanba Hijam Irawat, the Chief Minister also paid floral tribute to the statue of the great leader.
Arts and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, MLA Karam Shyam, MLA Sapam Nisihkant Singh, senior government officials and several other dignitaries attended the floral tribute ceremony.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also inaugurated several newly developed facilities at the complex and dedicated them to the people.