IMPHAL, June 18 � Paying floral tributes to the memorials of 18 persons who laid down their lives during an uprising here 12 years ago to safeguard the territorial integrity of the State, people of Manipur observed the Great June Uprising in Imphal today.
The day was observed jointly by the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) and United Committee, Manipur (UCM). Many leaders, including representatives of AMUCO and UCM, who spoke at the public meeting held at the Kekrupat ground, dwelt at length on the unity and integrity of the State.
Over a 100 individuals also donated blood as part of observing the day. Braving the scorching heat, many turned up to take part in the day long observation at the Kekrupat Memorial Complex in Imphal.
Some Opposition parties have even proposed to observe a 2-minute silence in connection with the June Uprising observation in the ongoing Assembly session.
It may be recalled that the people of Manipur came out in the street and openly voiced against the extension of the ceasefire between NSCN(IM) and Government of India to the State of Manipur during the public uprising in June 2001. The angry agitators had burned down the offices of political party, the State Assembly building, MLAs� quarters during the protest.
In view of the Great June Uprising observation, almost all the road leading to Imphal, the busy main market, cinema halls, educational institutions and other establishments, remained closed since early hours to mark the occasion. Attendance in government offices was low.