The 22nd Great June Uprising, Unity Day 2023 was observed on Sunday at Kekrupat in Imphal, by paying tribute to the courageous martyrs who sacrificed their lives in defence of Manipur's integrity on June 18, 2001.
The event, jointly organised by the United Committee Manipur (UCM) and the All Manipur United Club Organisation (AMUCO), aimed to reaffirm their commitment to counter any threats to the unity of Manipur.
This year's observance took place in a low-key manner due to the ongoing unrest that has persisted in the state since May 3.
Although the customary ritual ceremony and floral tribute event proceeded as usual, the annual public convention, a prominent feature of the programme conducted every year, was omitted from this year's schedule.
People from diverse ethnic backgrounds and various walks of life, including N Hiyainu, the spouse of Chief Minister N Biren, gathered to pay their respects to the martyrs at Kekrupat.
The participants remained resolute in their commitment to preserving Manipur's unity and integrity, vowing to continue the struggle against any elements that threaten the state's harmony.
The commemorative event began at 6 am and continued throughout the day.
In order to maintain security and prevent any untoward incidents, a significant number of security personnel, including central forces, were deployed in and around the vicinity of Kekrupat.
Addressing the media, AMUCO president Ph Nando Luwang emphasised that the ‘June 18’ commemoration was not directed against any specific community or organisation but against divisive actions perpetuated by the central government.
"As long as Kekrupat exists in Manipur, any efforts to disintegrate Manipur will be in vain,” he added.
Expressing disappointment at the central government's silence in the face of attempts to disintegrate Manipur by Kuki militants resorting to violence, he held both the central government and the Kuki militants responsible for the consequences.
Calling for withdrawal of the demand for a separate administration, stating that it went against the sentiments of the people of Manipur, he emphasised that the ongoing movement was not solely for the Meetei community but for the entire state of Manipur.
UCM president Joykumar Konthoujam stated that the patriotic spirit of the martyrs of "June 18" still resonates within every Manipuri, making the disintegration of Manipur an impossible dream.
Condemning the central government's silence despite being aware of the root causes of the unrest, he urged the government to find a solution promptly before the situation worsens.
He asserted, "While Kuki militants attempt to bifurcate Manipur, we are determined to safeguard its integrity," reiterating that the people of Manipur would not compromise even an inch of their land.
Furthermore, the UCM president drew attention to the frequent attacks by Kuki militants in the peripheral areas of the valley and called upon the government to deploy adequate security measures in the regions.
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