DIBRUGARH, Feb 27 - The foundation stone of the Anglo-Kuki War Memorial Park was officially laid on February 23 at Sadiya, in commemoration of the brave forefathers of the Kukis, who fought the mighty British Empire for freedom, unity and integration of the motherland, a release stated.
The Kukis valiantly fought the British in the Anglo-Kuki War of 1917-1919. The War is also known as Kuki Rebellion of 1917-19. It was a full-scale war, fought bravely and consistently by the Kukis for three consecutive years. However, due to economic blockade and food supply cut-off, the Kukis had to ultimately surrender and as a result their chiefs were charged with war crimes and thus deported in exile to Sadiya, under the then undivided Lakhimpur district of Assam.
The ceremonial unveiling of the plaque for the foundation stone was done by the chief guest Manajyoti Kuktum, the SDO, Sadiya subdivision of Tinsukia district, in the presence of Pu Thangkhokhup S Kipgen and Pu Haojakam, chairman and secretary, Anglo-Kuki War Patriots Memorial Foundation respectively. The programme was attended by locals, their gaonburahs, student leaders and some leaders of the Kuki community from other States of the North-east including those from upper Assam.
While delivering his welcome address, Lamhao Doungel, Additional SP of Tinsukia district, whose role was immense in the actual materialization of the project, expressed his satisfaction and gratefulness and thereby acknowledged the help and cooperation received from the district administration, particularly that of the Deputy Commissioner, Puru Gupta, the ADC, Diganta Saikia of Tinsukia district and the SDO of Sadiya subdivision.
Pu Thangkhokhup S Kipgen, chairman, AKWPM, said that it was not less than a dream come true since this was the best way to pay tributes to the brave warriors. Earlier, on the occasion immediately after the unveiling of the foundation stone by the chief guest, Pu Haojakam, the secretary of the AKWPMF led a prayer of thanksgiving to the Almighty.
The function was chaired by Dr Lamkholal Doungel, chairman KWS, Dibrugarh who also offered the vote of thanks. This was stated in a press release.
