A release by All Loktak Lake Areas Fishermen’s Union, Manipur (ALLAFUM) stated that the day was observed as a mark to remember the inhumane act that was carried out by Loktak Development Authority (LDA) in alliance with agencies of the state government from 15 to 23 November 2011.

Fishers of the Loktak Lake was harassed with the use of machinery to destroy houses. Prize possessions including fishing equipment and gears, student’s books, school uniforms, certificates were destroyed and burned to ashes, the release added.

It stated that president ALLAFUM, Kh Deven while speaking at the event said, ‘‘Kids who had experienced the inhumane incident are still traumatised by the memories of that day”.

Deven in the statement questioned whether people would ever feel happy when their houses are burned down.

The villagers offered prayers during the observance so that such inhumane incidents are not repeated in the future. A two minute silence was also observed by the participants of the observation. The villagers took a pledge to stand together to fight against anything that would harm the life and livelihood of the Nga-mees(fishermen). 

ALLAFUM organised the commemoration programme by praying to the Loktak Lairembee Eema, the release added.