85th Martyr's Day of Haipou Jadonang observed

IMPHAL, AUGUST 29 (MExN): The 85th Martyr's Day of Haipou Jadonang was observed today at various places in Manipur. The main programme was organised at Haipou Jadonang Park in Imphal (Keisampat) by the Haipou Jadonang Statue & Park Development Committee, Manipur.  

The day was observed in commemoration of the hanging of Haipou Jadonang by the then colonial British on this day in 1931. Jadonang was one of the leaders who opposed the British rule in the region.   Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who was present at the event, led the other participants in paying floral tributes to the statue of the legendary freedom fighter. A two-minute silence was observed as a mark of homage to the departed soul of Haipou Jadonang.   Gaikhangam in his speech made a fervent appeal to the people protesting against ILP related bills to withdraw their stand.   “The government will soon be tabling a new bill to safeguard the indigenous people of the state in the ensuing assembly session. It will be passed in the assembly and so I seek support from all sections to ensure timely approval of the propose bill from the Centre,” he further appealed.   He urged upon all concerned to perform burial service of the nine people  whose bodies are still lying in the mortuary of Churachandpur District Government Hospital. They were killed by security forces during protest that erupted following the passing of three "anti-tribal bills" in the state assembly in August last year. The tribal people have maintained such bills as ‘anti-tribal.’   On the occasion, Deputy Mayor of Imphal Municipal Council Maibon Phaomei, chairman of Haipou Jadonang Statue & Park Development Committee, Manipur Ph Thambaljao and member of Manipur State Women Commission Rajita Golmei and several people from the Zeliangrong community were present.