As the Manipur conflict, which erupted on May 3, 2023, completed a year on Friday, sections of people across the state commemorated the day by holding candlelight vigil at various locations during the night.
Some of the places include Kangla Western gate, Don Bosco Higher Secondary school Imphal, Manipur University and local clubs across the valley.
Scores of people took part in the vigil and paid their respects to images of the departed souls.
Meanwhile, people staying in relief camps at Akampat and Wangkhei Model High School, Imphal, also took out a Meira rally from the Wangkhei relief camp covering Konung Mamang, Palace Compound and Thangapat before concluding at Wangkhei Puja Lampak, Imphal.
The rally was organised by Wangkhei.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the rally, one Ahanthem Thoi, a person staying at Akampat relief camp, questioned why the authorities were neglecting the issue even after one year.
“We have been seeking refuge at the relief camp with no resolve in sight. How long are we going to stay homeless and remain hand to mouth,” she questioned.
She demanded authorities to act on their promises and resolve the conflict swiftly.
“The people have suffered enough and it is time for the authorities to restore order otherwise the outcry of people may pose unavoidable circumstances,” she said.
(PHOTO: IFP)
Candlelight vigil held to honour victims of Manipur conflict
In a poignant tribute to those tragically lost in the ongoing conflict gripping Manipur, members of Laipham Khunou Maning Leikai Meira Paibis and Aurora Club and Library gathered for a candlelight vigil on Friday evening; Friday marks one year since the conflict erupted on May 3, 2023, leaving a trail of devastation and sorrow in its wake.
Speaking to the press, S Prakash, general secretary of Aurora Club and Library, underscored the solemn purpose of the vigil, stating, “We are gathered here to honour the departed brave heroes of our motherland, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Manipur.” Emotions ran high as participants lit candles and observed a moment of silence, paying tribute to those who have fallen.
Prakash further appealed to both the central and state governments, urging them to expedite efforts to bring about a resolution to the conflict. “We have endured a year of immense suffering, and we cannot bear another year of pain. It is imperative that a solution be reached swiftly,” he emphasised.
The candlelight vigil, organised by Aurora Club and Library, served not only as a remembrance of the lives lost but also as a call to action for peace and reconciliation in the troubled region. Slogans like “Long Live Manipur,” “We Want Peace,” “Manipur Gi Ngamkhei Kaiba Yaroi,” and “Eikhoi Shanti Pammi” were chanted, echoing the collective desire for a peaceful resolution.
Markets, shops shut down
Markets at various locations, including Khwairamband Keithel remained shut, while various civil society organisations conducted the observation of May 3 at different locations as the unrest in Manipur completed a year on Friday.
In solidarity to those who have been affected by the crisis in the state, shops, markets remained closed as people voluntarily observed a shutdown in the valley.
The raging ethnic conflict in Manipur resulted in the loss of over 200 lives and forced more than 60,000 to flee their home, and resulted in the massive humanitarian crisis in the state.
