61st raising day of UNLF observed all over

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Nov 24 : The Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) celebrated the 61st raising day of the Front at its Central Headquarters at Kakching Khunou today.
The ceremony commenced with acting Chairman of the Front Thokchom Khambaton hoisting the party’s flag, followed by the offering of floral tributes to the founding members and cadres who sacrificed their lives for the cause of the motherland.
A two-minute silence was observed in their honour.
The observance was graced by Editor of Imphal Reviews of Arts and Politics  Pradip Phanjoubam as chief guest, Th Khambaton as functional president and  Core Committee on Relief and Rehabilitation Manipur convenor Yazing Vicisy Shimray, Manipur Keithel Nupi Marup Khwairamband Keithel general secretary Laishram Memma, Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) Manipur  acting president BM Yaima, Pambei led UNLF secretary publicity (HRD and Education) Charairongba Thokchom, advisory committee member I Tonsana, general secretary Salam Nongdol, chief of army staff Khuraijam Khoimu and  Khundrakpam Sanahal (external under regional affairs) as guests of honour.
Addressing the gathering, Th Khambaton stated that the Front signed a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India in New Delhi on November 29, 2023, to pave the way for political dialogue and resolution of the long-standing conflict between Manipur and India.
He emphasized that the Front does not endorse violence and is aware that India is unlikely to restore Manipur’s sovereignty through peaceful means alone.
Nonetheless, he reaffirmed the Front’s commitment to resolving the conflict through negotiation.
The Front can take an appropriate decision should the political talks fail to yield a resolution, Khambaton added.
Stating that the political talks have been delayed due to the ongoing crisis in Manipur but preparations are underway to commence them soon, he continued that the discussions will focus exclusively on the restoration of Manipur’s sovereignty.
There is no question of laying down arms or abandoning their movement, the  outfit leader maintained.
He also said that the Front will continue to serve and safeguard the people of Manipur whenever the situation demands, regardless of whether the public acknowledges or appreciates their efforts.
The Front’s commitment to protecting the people will remain unwavering, even if their service goes unrecognized, Khambaton maintained.
Saying that a group of people who seek to bifurcate Manipur has emerged amid the crisis that erupted on May 3, 2023, he added that the Front confronted this group out of compulsion, not for recognition or praise.
Khambaton further stated that Front continues to uphold the ideal of living together and developing together, a vision laid down by its founding members.
Emphasising that Manipur has a rich historical legacy spanning thousands of years, he explained that the history of Manipur is not confined to or associated with a single community.
He said that Manipur may regain its sovereignty easily if the indigenous communities stand as one.
Alleging that India has been employing a divide-and-rule policy in Manipur, just as the British once did to create animosity among communities, he called for unity among all indigenous communities to build a stronger and more resilient Manipur.