Chandel, June 19: The All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) on Thursday observed the 12th Remembrance Day as a tribute to the nine martyrs at the ANSAM Memorial Park, Kapaam Village in Chandel district.
The martyrs are Shelly Chara, an activist assassinated on June 19, 1995 by non-state actors; Ashun R. Janvei, president of the Lamkang Students’ Union, who was martyred by the Kuki National Army; Ng. Sanii, a 78-year-old killed by indiscriminate firing of the Manipur Rifles at Senapati during the ANSAM agitation; Namthiurei Abonmei, who lost his life in a valiant act; Gemcliff Zimik, who lost his life while facilitating students for their exams; Neli Chakho Mao and Dikho Loshou Mao, who were martyred on May 6, 2010 at Mao Gate; and Mayopam Ramror and Ramkashing Vashi, who were killed on August 30, 2014 when Manipur State Commandos and IRB fired upon a peaceful rally.
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At the ANSAM Memorial Park, Langhu Paulhring, former president of ANSAM, hoisted the association flag, which was followed by a gun salute as a tribute to the nine martyrs. After a solidarity hymn and invocation, leaders of various Naga CSOs and student bodies laid wreaths at the Martyrs’ Monument.
Later, delivering the presidential address, Th. Angteshang Maring, President of ANSAM, paid his deepest homage to the great souls for their supreme sacrifice in fighting for the inherent rights of the people and in defending their ancestral land and unique history. “I salute and extend my profound thanks to the family members of the martyrs for your presence and for encouraging the Naga leaders on this 12th ANSAM Remembrance Day,” he said.
He also acknowledged the presence of leaders from the UNC, Naga Women Union, NPMHR-S, CNPO, Moyon Naga Council, former presidents and senior leaders of ANSAM, units of ANSAM, religious leaders, Kapaam Chief and village leaders, and all other leaders and members who gathered for the observation.
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The United Naga Council, Naga Women Union, and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights also expressed their solidarity with ANSAM and the martyrs through their messages.
This was followed by a blessing of the martyrs’ families by Rev. Shonnai Saka, President of the Chandel Naga Christian Forum.
In his memorial message, Langhu Paulhring, former president of ANSAM, paid tribute to the martyrs and saluted their families. Calling on the Nagas to always remember the sacrifices made, he urged for oneness and unity.
The observation concluded with ANSAM President Th. Angteshang de-hoisting the flag.
The event was attended by leaders of various Naga CSOs and student bodies.