Imphal: Three organizations held separate events in Imphal to mark the 35th Manipuri Language Day. Students and scholars gathered to demand better preservation of local linguistic roots. The All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) hosted its event at TG Higher Secondary School. AMSU president Lukram Malangba warned that locals often prioritize English or Hindi to seem more civilized.
He pushed for active local ownership of the language. "Outsiders will not take responsibility for developing our language. We have to take the responsibility ourselves," he said. The ceremony included retired professor Dr. Saratchandra Longjomba and other academic leaders. AMSU members cited their group’s history in getting Manipuri added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Wakhallon Mannaba Apunba (WAMA) met at GP College to promote research on the Meitei Mayek script. President Moirangthem Naokhamba wants this work to reach everyone from kids to veteran academics. He noted that scholars from Tangkhul, Maring, Kabui, and Kom communities are now contributing to these studies. WAMA honored five researchers: Yuileila Teresa Keishing, Makunga Motang Maring, Maringmei Gairillu, Soringla Kashung, and Mangte Rimthang Kom.
Dignitaries including former COHSEM chairman Dr. Hamom Nabachandra attended the WAMA event. Speakers stressed that protecting Manipuri must include respect for other indigenous languages. The Writers Platform Manipur also held a public observance at the Manipur Press Club. Attendees included Health Services Director Dr. Nongthongbam Hemantakumar and WRITPLAT President Haobam Chitra.
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