The United Committee Manipur (UCM) today celebrated its 25th Foundation Day, marking its Silver Jubilee with a function at Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal East, where leaders of several civil society organisations reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of Manipur and called for unity among indigenous communities.
The celebration brought together representatives of various civil society organisations and Meira Paibi groups from across the state. UCM president Y.K. Dhiren presided over the function, while AMKIL president Lourenbam Nganbi, Kanglamei president Y. Leirikleima, United People’s Front (UPF) president Nongthombam Rupachandra, IPSA president Maibam Bisheshwor, NIPCO president Oinam Premjit, PANDAM president Yumnamcha Dilipkumar and ACOAM-Lup, Kangleipak president Sorajsam Sanjit attended as presidium members.
Addressing media persons on the sidelines of the programme, UCM president Y.K. Dhuren appealed to all communities in Manipur to work together for a united state. Recalling the June 18, 2001 uprising, he paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the movement to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur, stating that their sacrifices continue to inspire the organisation’s objectives.
Delivering the keynote address, UCM General Secretary Santa Nahakpam outlined the organisation’s activities over the past 25 years and acknowledged the challenges it has faced amid the ongoing crisis in the state. He said the UCM was founded with the objective of safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity and alleged that the present crisis was triggered by illegal immigrants. He called upon all indigenous communities to work collectively to protect the state’s territorial boundaries and preserve communal harmony.
Founder president Sapamcha Jadumani traced the origin of the organisation to the June 18, 2001 movement against the Centre’s ceasefire agreement with the NSCN-IM. He recalled that 18 civilians were killed in firing during the mass agitation, after which various organisations and the public resolved to establish a common platform to defend the territorial integrity of Manipur. The United Committee Manipur was subsequently formed on July 3, 2001, he said.
Jadumani also expressed concern over what he described as continuing threats to the state’s territorial integrity, alleging that illegal immigration and the presence of armed groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement had aggravated the situation. He further alleged that successive state governments had failed to adequately safeguard Manipur’s territorial interests and claimed that the present government had not been responsive to public concerns.
Other presidium members highlighted the role played by the UCM during major political and social developments in the state, stating that the organisation has consistently taken a leading role during periods of crisis.
As part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations, the UCM hoisted its organisational flag at its office, held a candle-lighting ceremony in memory of those who died during the June 18, 2001 movement, honoured the families of the victims and presented cultural performances.