IMPHAL, April 23 - Khongjom Day, a day on which the martyrs of the 1891 Khongjom War are remembered, was observed today at the historic Khongjom War Memorial site at Kheba hillock, about 35 km from Imphal in Thoubal district.
Governor Dr Najma Heptulla and Chief Minister N Biren Singh paid floral tributes at the martyrs� memorial on the hillock and the statue of Paona Brajabashi installed at the foothill.
The Day is observed to pay tributes to the brave sons of Manipur who sacrificed their lives in the last battle of independence popularly known as Khongjom War against the British on April 23, 1891.
Speaking at the main function later, Dr Heptulla said that paying tributes to war heroes would be meaningless unless the new generation collectively takes a pledge to free the country from poverty and social evils.
Terming the recent rise in crimes against women and children in the State as a �matter of serious concern,� she expressed her desire to address such issues in public interest.
Stating that such issues have delayed development, she appealed to the people to develop a progressive Manipur where everybody lives a decent life. �Let us all take a decision on this historic day to work together to make our State the No. 1 State in the country,� she said.
In his speech, the Chief Minister said a Bill to save the indigenous people of the State will be introduced in the Monsoon session of the Assembly. Reminding the people how the brave soldiers fought against the mighty British who had occupied half of the world, he said the true meaning of Khongjom Day was to pay respect to the spirit, courage and love for the motherland shown by the Manipuri warriors.
Manipur Speaker Yumnam Khemchand, Ministers, MLAs, and top civil and police officials were present at the event. A play based on the historic battle and a traditional musical performance were also staged.
