As the nation celebrates the 77th Independence Day, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister N Biren Singh have extended their greetings to the people of Manipur on the occasion.
“I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people of Manipur on the occasion of Independence Day, 2023,” the governor said.
During the last more than seven decades after independence, India has made great strides in all fields and is targeting to be in the comity of leading nations of the world, she said, adding that though major progress has been made in most of the socio-economic development areas all over the country, challenges still remain to be tackled. The technological strides have been made to ensure that no citizen is left hungry or illiterate and progress is equitable, the governor added.
The governor also stated that various measures have been taken on these fronts continuously and called on every one to take a pledge to work that these efforts bear fruit so that all are provided with the support they need for sustenance and become responsible citizens.
“I sincerely urge all citizens to work together and bring emotional integrity and ensure that every part of the country is developed equally so that there is no sense of discrimination,” she said.
CM Biren also extended warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Manipur on the occasion of the Independence Day, and said that the 77th Independence Day is an occasion to reflect on the freedom that the citizens of India enjoy..
Rabindranath Tagore, in one of his celebrated poems, talks of freedom where people live without fear, with dignity, without social barriers, and where actions are based on truth and rationality, the CM said.
“Our State Manipur is going through a difficult period in its long history. The conflict that has engulfed the State since 3rd May 2023 is unprecedented in the scale and extent of violence. People on both sides of the conflict are engaged in acts of violence, guided by thoughts of hatred and vengeance. The voices of reason hardly appeal to them.
"With over 150 dead and hundreds injured, homes and places of faith razed to the ground, we are not leaving a good legacy for our children and our future generations," Biren said.
However, the State must rise above confines of community affiliations and work for peace, understanding and reconciliation. Each one must look beyond narrow considerations and be willing to find a solution that must be based on centuries of living together, the CM said.
Provocative actions may test the State's patience and goodwill. Yet, in a battle against divisive forces, the State must also remain strong and resilient. In the end, truth and peace will prevail, he said.
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