The United Committee Manipur (UCM) today celebrated its 25th Foundation Day, marking a significant milestone in its journey to safeguard the territorial integrity of Manipur. The Silver Jubilee celebration was held at the Tanthapolic Hall in Lamphel Super Market with a solemn tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Manipur’s unity.
Speaking at the event, UCM President Y.K. Dhiren Meitei reiterated that the future of Manipur depends on the ability of all communities to live and work together in harmony. He warned that if the people of Manipur fail to unite, the very existence of the state could be at risk.
The commemorative event was attended by leaders of several prominent civil society organisations, including Nongthombam Rupachandra, President of United Peoples’ Front (UPF); Maibam Bisheshwor, President of IPSA; Oinam Premjit, President of NIPCO; Yumnamcha Dilipkumar, President of PANDAM; Soraisam Sanjit, President of ACOAM-Lup Kangleipak; Y. Leirikleima, President of Kanglamei; and Lourembam Nganbi, President of AMKIL. All dignitaries shared a common message of safeguarding Manipur’s collective identity and heritage.
A one-minute silence was observed in memory of the martyrs of the historic June 18 movement and the victims of the ongoing unrest that erupted on May 3, 2023. The gathering paid heartfelt tribute to those who laid down their lives defending Manipur’s territorial integrity and to those who continue to work for peace and justice.
In his address, Y.K. Dhiren Meitei recalled the origins of UCM, which was founded on July 3, 2001, following the public uproar against the “Without Territorial Limits” clause in the ceasefire agreement signed between the Government of India and NSCN-IM on June 14, 2001, in Bangkok. He said the agreement had deeply shaken the people of Manipur, who saw it as a threat to the state’s territorial unity. It was in this context that UCM emerged as a united front of civil society organisations, determined to resist any attempt to alter Manipur’s boundaries.
He further stated that the threat to Manipur’s integrity has not ended. Even today, certain elements are working to destabilise the state by dividing its people. He reaffirmed that UCM will continue to stand at the forefront of defending Manipur’s unity and identity, and called for renewed vigilance and collective action in the face of such challenges.