Manipur Patriots' Day: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urges people to preserve history, culture, and unity

Guwahati: Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla called upon the people to preserve Manipur’s rich history, culture and heritage, uphold constitutional values and strengthen unity among all communities.

Emphasising that peace is the foundation of a prosperous society, he appealed particularly to the youth to carry forward the legacy of the patriots through education, hard work, understanding and unity.

The State on Thursday observed Patriots’ Day, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh leading other dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, Ministers, MLAs, senior civil and police officials, and other dignitaries, in paying floral tributes to the heroes of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.


The observance began in the morning with floral tributes at Hicham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom, and Thangal Temple, Palace Compound. In the afternoon, the Governor and the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, attended the wreath-laying ceremony at Kangla Uttra.

The programme continued with floral tributes at Shaheed Minar, where the Governor, Chief Minister, Speaker, Ministers, MLAs and senior government officials paid homage to the brave patriots who sacrificed their lives in defence of Manipur’s sovereignty. A Guard of Honour was presented by contingents of the Manipur Rifles. Floral tributes were also offered at the Memorial Stone of the exiled martyrs of the 1891 War.

Bhalla paid homage to Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Maharaj Kulachandra and all the patriots of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. He said their courage, sacrifice and commitment to the motherland remained deeply etched in the collective memory of the people of Manipur.

The Governor further stated that the struggle of 1891 teaches that true courage lies in standing for what is right even in the face of great adversity. He stressed that Patriots’ Day is not merely an occasion to remember the past but also an opportunity to learn from history and work towards a better future.

The Governor said the best tribute to the heroes would be to build a peaceful, prosperous, harmonious and inclusive Manipur, where every citizen can live with dignity and hope. He also called upon the people to preserve the unity and integrity of Manipur, uphold peace and harmony, and work collectively for the future of the State.

Yumnam Khemchand Singh recalled the sacrifices of the patriots who fought fearlessly for the protection and dignity of the motherland. He paid his deepest respect to those who made the supreme sacrifice and said that their courage, dedication and service continue to inspire the people of Manipur.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the achievements of Manipuri sportspersons in the recently concluded Commonwealth Games and various other achievers from diverse fields who have brought recognition to Manipur at the national and international levels. He appreciated those who have represented Manipur and India and brought laurels to the State, stating that their achievements reflect the talent and potential of the people of Manipur.

He emphasised the need for the younger generation to carry forward the legacy of those who came before them. He appealed to every citizen to work with unity, dedication and a sense of responsibility while preserving the history and heritage of Manipur and respecting the sacrifices of the forefathers.

The Chief Minister said the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for the land and its people must never be forgotten and that their courage should continue to guide the people in shaping the future of the State. He called for collective efforts towards building a peaceful, prosperous and united Manipur.

As part of the occasion, the Manipur Chief Minister’s Police Medal for Gallantry was announced for five police personnel, while the Manipur Chief Minister’s Police Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty was announced for ten police personnel.