Strong pledge taken to avert another Khuntakpa

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jan 9: The United People's Front (UPF) Manipur observed National Reconsolidation Day and 191st death anniversary of Maharaja Chinglen Nong-drenkhomba (Gambhir Singh) today.
Held to recall the 7 years of devastation from 1819 to 1826 under the theme "Eikhoi amuk hanna khun-taklaroi", the observance saw people from various communities paying floral tributes to the portraits of Maharaja Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh and Hera-chandra at Langthabal.
Later, the people led by womenfolk carried out a procession from Langthabal to Singjamei Chingamathak Hao Ground, where the main function was observed.
People in the procession shouted slogans and carried banners that read "Eikhoi amuk hanna khuntaklaroisi, Eikhoigi tunggi laibak eikhoina leplasi, Eikhoi Machoi Tabagi wakhal tha- doklasi and Meetopna Mani-purbu langoi chanhan- laroisi".
UPF Manipur president Nongthombam Rupachan-dra, All Manipur Meetei Pangal Development Organization's chief advisor retired Assistant Professor BM Alauddin, Zeliangrong Union (Manipur & Nagaland) vice president Athai Kamei, COCOMI co-ordinator Somorendro Thokchom, AMUCO president Pheiroijam Nando Luwang, CCSK president Jitendra Ningomba, HERI-COUN president Yum- khaibam Surjitkumar Khu-man, IPSA president Mai- bam Bisheshor and UCM president YK Dhiren attended the observance at Singjamei Chingamathak Hao Ground.
Speaking on the occasion, UPF secretary general Soibam Anil said Manipur overcame 7 years of devastation (1819 to 1826) and fought for its independence against the invading British.
The occupation under the Burmese and later under the British, however, couldn't erase the Manipur society as the aspiration of the people to regain freedom, exist independent and stronger was exceptional, he said.
Even as Manipur is still facing threat to its integrity today, the same will and aspiration to protect and safeguard her exist in people, he said.
Following the footsteps of Maharaja Gambhir Singh and Nara Singh, people now should come together and unite to face all foes threatening Manipur's integrity, he added.
UPF president N Rupachandra recalled the sacrifices of the loyal soldiers and Maharaja Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh and Herachandra.
If it weren't for the soldiers of the Kings, there wouldn't be Manipur today, he said.
"The responsibility to protect Manipur now lies with us. If we fail to safeguard her, future generations will spit on us," Rupachandra said.
UPF advisor, L Jadumani said the month-long National Reconsolidation Day 2025 was observed with campaigns in various places to instill in people a sense of unity and the need to work collectively to safeguard Manipur.
People should remember the 7 years of devastation never to face it again, he said.
Indigenous people residing in Manipur and elsewhere must take pledge to unite and never face "Khuntakpa" again, he added.