Imphal: Manipur observed the 25th Great June Uprising Day, also known as Unity Day, to honor 18 individuals who died during the 2001 mass protests to protect the state's territorial integrity. Organized by the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation and the United Committee Manipur, the event took place at Kekrupat, where the victims were laid to rest 25 years ago. The ceremony featured traditional rituals, floral tributes, and a ceremonial salute by Thang-Ta performers.
The 2001 protests erupted after the Union government signed a ceasefire agreement with the NSCN (IM) that included the phrase without territorial limits. The provision sparked widespread fear across Manipur regarding the state's boundaries. Demonstrations turned fatal when security forces opened fire, killing 14 people immediately and leaving four others to die later from their injuries.
United Committee Manipur Secretary General Shanta Nahakpam emphasized the lasting impact of the movement. He stated, "June 18, 2001, as a defining moment in Manipur's history, saying the protesters had sacrificed their lives to defend the state's territorial integrity." Nahakpam noted that families of the victims are still awaiting justice and that official reports regarding the killings remain pending.
Drawing comparisons to the ongoing unrest since 2023, Nahakpam expressed frustration over the pace of investigations and the limited number of arrests made by authorities. Despite these challenges, organizers reaffirmed that Manipur’s diverse communities remain committed to defending the state's administrative and territorial boundaries against future threats.
Comments