Manipur Governor Najma Heptulla, Chief Minister N Biren Singh and state ministers have extended their heartiest greetings to the people of the state on Khongjom Day 2021, April 23, and paid homage to the brave Manipuri soldiers who fought against the British forces.
In her message, the governor stated: “The day celebrates the indomitable courage and spirit of patriotism the Manipuris displayed in the Anglo-Manipuri War, 1891. A handful of Manipuri soldiers fought against the mighty British Empire and laid down the historical fact that the British rule was brought upon us by the disunity and enmity among the Manipuri princes who yearned for the throne. It is a lesson to us all that foreign powers tend to intervene in the sovereignty of a country whenever its people are disunited and disorganised.”
“On this auspicious occasion, I appeal to one and all, irrespective of caste, creed or religion to reaffirm our pledge to preserve and protect the sovereignty and integrity of our country,” said Heptulla.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh recalled how the brave Manipuri soldiers led by Paona Brajabashi fought a fierce battle against the British forces at the southern fringe of Manipur valley at Khongjom.
“On this day in 1891, valiant Manipuri soldiers led by Paona Brajabashi fought a fierce battle with British forces at the southern fringe of Manipur valley at Khongjom. Paona Brajabashi and hundreds of his brave soldiers died in the battle fighting the enemy. Enemy troops were far greater in number and superior in weaponry. Yet, they faced the mighty British forces even after knowing that they would be defeated, in order to save the sovereignty of their motherland. They died heroic deaths leaving a huge inspiration for the future generation,” he said.
“As such, Khongjom Day not only reminds us of their fearless and courageous deeds but also rekindles a strong sense of patriotism inspiring us to rededicate ourselves for a new Manipur. On this auspicious and solemn occasion, let us pay homage to our fallen heroes,” said Biren.
Works Minister Th Biswajit Singh also extended his warm wishes and best greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Khongjom Day which is observed on April 23 every year. He said that “the day is observed to pay homage to the brave heroes of the land who laid down their lives for the sake of their motherland. On this momentous day, let us all remember the heroic sacrifices made by our brave forefathers who stood against the mighty British in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Let us all follow in their footsteps and renew our pledge to defend the sovereignty and integrity of our country.”
“Today, as we are facing the second wave of COVID outbreak in the country, let us stay strong and fight it back to emerge victorious by adhering to the SOPs issued by the experts and government,” said the minister.
Agriculture Minister Oinam Lukhoi Singh while extending greetings to the people of Manipur on the occasion of Khongjom Day, said that “I pay my utmost respect and tributes to all the brave hearts who fought in the 1891 Anglo-Manipur war.”
“The Khongjom Day is observed every year on April 23 to pay tribute to the war heroes of Anglo-Manipuri War 1891 who had sacrificed their lives fighting against the British to protect the freedom of Manipur. The war has its significance in the Indian history for the bravery of the soldiers that fought against three sides of British attack, that is, from Silchar, Kohima and Myanmar. The battle was fought at the Kheba hills of Khongjom in Manipur and hence the name Khongjom Day or Khongjom war,” said the minister.
“On this day, let us all reaffirm our stand in safeguarding the integrity and unity of our state and country,” he added.
“Let us remind ourselves once again of their heroic deeds on this historic day and pay tribute to them for their priceless contributions in making Manipur to the present state that is today,” added Consumer Affairs minister Th Satyabrata Singh in his Khongjom Day message.
