Imphal: The All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) will host its 37th Students’ Emancipation Day on May 28, 2026. The event honors student leaders Haobijam Ibohal, Urikhinbam Khelen, and Kumam Sarat, who lost their lives during historic advocacy for educational reform in Manipur.
AMSU Information and Publicity Secretary Serto Rengneier Kom explained that student movements gained momentum after Manipur became a state in 1972. Tensions rose in 1973 as the government failed to address grievances regarding the state's education system. During this period, student leader Haobijam Ibohal of Moirang College was killed on September 30.
The union also highlighted the events of May 1979, when students from Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School began a fast unto death. Following the arrest of five student leaders, protests swept the region. AMSU stated that Urikhinbam Khelen and Kumam Sarat subsequently died from injuries sustained after being burnt inside the Moirang Police Station lock-up.
Since 1990, the organization has held annual tributes to recognize these sacrifices. This year’s commemoration begins with floral offerings at the memorial complex inside Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, followed by a public meeting at the Moirang Pangsang Community Hall. The union has invited all students and the general public to attend the program.
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