Many more mourn demise of Sonamani

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jul 21 : More organisations have mourned the demise of retired IPS officer and socio-political commentator Potsangbam, Sonamani.
Taragi Cheisu
The Taragi Cheishu held a condolence meeting on July 20 at its Khurai Ahongei office under with Khaidem Mani in the chair, to mourn the passing of its vice chairman,  Potsangbam Sonamani, who breathed his last on July 19.
Members of the organisation, while expressing their deep anguish and sorrow over the sudden demise of P Sonamani, reflected on his unwavering commitment to public welfare, his principled character, and the selfless service that defined his life, said Taragi Cheisu in a press release.
His passing leaves a void that is profoundly felt, not only within Taragi Cheishu but also across the fabric of Manipuri society, it said and added that the gathering observed a two-minute silence and offered prayers for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
Heartfelt condolences were extended to the bereaved family, along with collective prayers for strength and solace to overcome this difficult time, it said and added that Sonamani’s legacy of dedication and integrity will continue to guide Taragi Cheishu’s mission and inspire future generations.
After the meeting a team of Taragi Cheishu led by Chairman, Khaidem Mani and Co-Chairman, RK Nimai visited the residence of Sonamani at Thangmeiband Hijam Dewan Leikai, and met the bereaved family members and shared their grief and sorrow.
MMTU
The Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union also condoled the passing of Sonamani.
In a statement, the Union stated that Sonamani actively participated in the movement seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Meetei/Meitei community and shared his knowledge on issues concerning the Meeteis.
MMTU further stated that Sonamani provided security to participants of a long march organized by Young Horizon Manipur in 2008 in Nagaland.
The march covered Meetei settlement places in North East India, it said.
The Union also stated that the retired IPS officer received the participants of the march at the Kohima Capital Hall and arranged their food and accommodation.
Even after the participants left Nagaland, Sonamani coordinated with police officers in other States to ensure their safety, it added.
It stated that Sonamani participated in various campaigns in Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura, advocating for ST status for Meeteis.
Additionally, he promoted peaceful coexistence between the hill and valley people in Manipur, it added. MMTU shared the pain of the bereaved family.
UCM
The United Committee Manipur (UCM), while  mourning the passing of Sonamani, acknowledged his efforts to unite the Manipuri diaspora. Remembering Sonamani for his contributions to the collective welfare of Manipuris, the UCM noted his active participation in various Manipur National Conventions organized by Manipuri student organizations based across different North Eastern States.
Sonamani was a renowned socio-political commentator who provided valuable insights on issues concerning Manipur, UCM said and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.
All India Students' Federation (AISF), Manipur State Council; Manipur People's Front (MPF); Indigenous People's Organisation Manipur (IPOM); Jiribam Women's Association of Kangleipak (JIMWAK); International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), Jiribam branch; Struggling Women's Association Kangleipak, Jiribam branch; Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA), Jiribam branch and Kanglei People's Confederation  (KAPECON) also conveyed their condolences and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.