IMPHAL, December 12: The 72nd Nupi Lal Day was observed today in various parts of the state and outside to pay tribute to the great Manipuri women who had laid down their lives in the revolt against the British rulers in 1939.
The state level observation was held at Nupi Lal Complex with agriculture minister Ph Parijat as the chief guest and IFCD minister N Biren as the president.
Speaking at the observation, agriculture minister Ph Parijat stated that the government has declared December 12 as a state holiday every year to acknowledge the role of women in the Manipuri society.
Manipuri women are known for their valour and righteousness. Even the mighty British Empire feared the courage and tenaciousness of the Manipuri women, he asserted.
Recalling the historic event of December 12, 1939, Parijat stated that the valiant Manipuri women could not resist any form of colonial oppression. The women rose to revolt against the British government for causing artificial scarcity of rice in the state.
The women bore all oppression and torture of the British forces. Nevertheless, they continued to fight till their last breath, he noted.
Delivering the presidential speech, IFCD minister N Biren stated that the present Manipuri women should fight against injustice and crime in the society in the manner the past Manipuri women fought against the erstwhile British government.
The Manipuri women have certain exceptional qualities. They excel in games, sports, art, culture and academics, he noted.
Biren further appreciated the women and encouraged them to bring laurels to the state.
The dignitaries also paid floral tribute at the memorial statue of Nupi Lal during the observation.
A marathon was also organized by State Nupi Lal Ningshing Lamjel Organizing Committee in the morning from Nupi Lal Complex to Singjamei Super Market.
On the other hand, various social organizations and NGOs also observed the Nupi Lal Day at various parts of the state.
AMAWOVA, Poirei Leimarol, MEPWAK, AMKIL, Kanglamei, CHITUWA and WACAK jointly observed the Nupi Lal Day at THAU Ground with Th Iboyaima, president Irawat Foundation as the chief guest.
Leipham Khunou Makha Leikai Panthoibi Women’s Society and Apunba Nupi Lup Meira Paibi also observed Nupi Lal at Laipham Khunou Community Hall.
All Manipur Democratic Women Association, BJP, Manipur Pradesh, BJP Mahila Morcha and Manipur People’s Party also observed the Nupi Lal Day.