IMPHAL, May 2: The government of should take initiative to erect a statue honouring late General Balaram Sougaijamba who was one of the icons of Manipur.
This was stated by Padmashree RK Jhalajit Singh delivering his speech during the 126th Death Anniversary and Unveiling of Statue (Bust) of General Balaram Sougaijamba at Sougaijam Lampak, Moirangkhom, Imphal.
The anniversary observance was organized by the Members of General Balaram Sougaijamba Foundation.
Speaking about the contribution of General Balaram, Sougaijamba, Jhalajit said that the late General was responsible for establishing the first English school in Manipur, Johnstone English School, during the time of Maharaja Chandrakriti. He also made a substantial contribution in fighting to regain the lost sovereignty of Manipur, he continued.
HOD (History), Standard College Dr Laishram Basanti Devi observed that besides being a General, Balaram Sougaijamba, was also concerned about the socio-economic well being of the people as well as for the development of Manipur.
Addressing the chief guest speech, former Chief Minister of Manipur, RK Dorendra Singh said that it is time to shed the trend of verbal consolidation of historical personalities instead start implementing the ideology and believes of the great leaders in action.
Sougaijam Saraju Devi, member of the general`™s foundation; Yaiskul MLA, Elangbam Chand Singh and ex-Chairperson, MSCFW Dr Chongtham Ningol Jamini Devi also attended the function as president and guests of honours respectively while writer B kulachandra Sharma was present as a resource person.