IMPHAL, June 14: The veteran Congress leader and MP of Rajya Sabha Rishang Keishing was felicitated by Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on the Diamond jubilee of his political career at Congress Bhavan here on Thursday.
The felicitation ceremony was organized by a Reception Committee headed by S Achouba , Vice President, MPCC.
Chief Minister O Ibobi received Rishang Keishing with warm welcome and presented him a shawl. Later, the Chief Minister and Home Minister Gaikhangam jointly released a booklet entitled “A Sketch Biography of Veteran Politician Shri Rishang Keishing, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha on the Diamond Jubille of his Political Career from 1952-2012.
The biography published by MPCC is written both in Manipuri and English languages.
The octogenarian was later presented with gifts by members of MPCC and its frontal organization leaders and members, Chairmen, Members of ADC, Members of Zilla Parishad, ministers, MLAs and other leaders as well as a host of well wishers.
Noted Manipuri singer Naba Volcano presented a beautiful song in praise of the 93-year-old Congress leader at the splendid function.
Speaking on the occasion, Keishing said he feels very proud to be able to serve the people till today as a Congress man.
Rishang first became a MP of Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency after he won the election in 1952 on Indian Socialist Party ticket. He again succeeded in 1962 Lok Sabha election on the same ticket.
Later in 1964, he joined the Congress under the leadership of late Jawaharlal Neharu, the first Prime Minister of India and since then he started to work as an AICC member.
In 2001, Rishang was left alone in the opposition bench after 13 out of 14 Congress MLAs defected. He boldly remained as a Congress man at such time when the party faced difficult political situation.
He said Congress is a disciplined party owing to which he has continuously served for the party for such a long time, adding that the state ruling Congress party should be strengthened.
The veteran Congress leader also remembered other leaders including Kullabidhu on the occasion. He insisted that the Congress will serve the people forever while suggesting that it is necessary to mend in time if mistakes are detected in the various developmental works being taken up by the government.
On the occasion, Chief Minister Ibobi said he and other Congress leaders are guided by Rishang and he has taught us tolerance while in politics, adding that it is really fortunate to have a leader like Rishang in Congress.
His contribution and guidance will never be forgotten by the Congress, the Chief Minister said.
Home Minister Gaikhangam while addressing the gathering said veteran politician Rishang had been felicitated by the Indian Parliament in another earlier occasion for being the first MP of Lok Sabha and a veteran Congress man. Gaikhangam also sought blessings from God for his longevity.