On Athouba Singgi Numit, a significant event unfolded at Cheiraoching in Imphal. Rich floral tributes adorned the memorial site for nine martyrs of the proscribed outfit RPF-PLA. Families of these nine cadres, who perished in an encounter with the Army, alongside numerous individuals from diverse communities, paid their respects to the memorials of Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Paona Brajabashi, and Lamyanba Hijam Irabot.
Notably, the nine cadres met their fate in a skirmish with the Army in Kodompokpi on April 13, 1982. Among them were Thoudam Kunjabihari, Thoudam Loken, Mai-bam Paka, Pakhanglakpa, RK Khoiromba, Sorokhaibam Kame-shwor, Khundrakpam Chaobal, Naorem Rajen, and Moirangthem Premkumar.
Despite the tragedy, a large number of individuals gathered to honor these nine “martyrs.” The presence of personnel from the Red Cross Society and other medical teams ensured stringent security measures at the site.
The High Court of Manipur granted permission for the memorial service to take place between 6 am and 4 pm.
Throughout the event, various religious rituals and Thang-Ta performances were conducted.
Khundrakpam Medha, a family member of one of the “martyrs,” emphasized the annual observance of Athouba Singgi Numit on April 13 to commemorate the “martyrs.”
Expressing gratitude, she thanked attendees for their presence at the memorial event, along with the Red Cross Society and security forces for their unwavering service.
A similar commemorative event was held at Kodompokpi, the site where the nine cadres met their fate on April 13, 1982.
Additionally, homage was paid to seven RPF cadres who lost their lives in 1981 at Tekcham.
Meanwhile, the RPF extended its appreciation to the individuals from electronic media, bar associations, clubs, associations, institutions, Health Department personnel, educators, students, medical practitioners, law enforcement officers, and the local residents of Cheiraoching for their invaluable contributions in observing Martyrs’ Day.
