The agitation was launched against the extension of cease-fire without territorial limits signed between the Government of India and NSCN (IM) on June 14, 2001
Newmai News Network
Imphal | June 18
Floral tributes were paid to those who were killed during the public agitation in 2001, known as “The Great June Uprising, Unity Day.”
The United Committee Manipur (UCM) and All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) have been jointly observing the day every year in memory of the 18 protesters who had sacrificed their lives "in defending the territorial integrity of Manipur."
The agitation was launched against the extension of cease-fire with the Nagaland-based NSCN (IM) on June 14, 2001. Manipur Assembly building and several government offices and quarters of legislators were burnt down during the agitation in which many were also injured and left disabled.
“We stick to our stand that Manipur’s territorial integrity must be kept intact. I appeal to all communities of the state to remain united and safeguard our territorial integrity together,” said UCM president Elangbam Johnson on the occasion of the 15th Great June Uprising, Unity Day held at Kekrupat here.
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, ministers, MLAs and other officials along with thousands of people paid floral tributes at the memorial stone of the 18 “martyrs” at Kekrupat. A meeting was organised at the venue as part of the event.
Gaikhangam reassured that challenges against Manipur’s territorial boundary would not be compromised under any circumstances.
“Let’s remain alert by observing every development in order to protect our territorial integrity,” AMUCO president Dr Y Mani Khuman appealed to all ethnic groups of Manipur at the meet.
The Bangkok Declaration which extended the cease-fire to without territorial limits was signed between the Government of India and NSCN (IM). The Naga outfit had earlier agreed to a ceasefire in August 1997 and began peace talks with the Centre. One of the main demands of the outfit is integration of all Naga-dominated areas including that of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
