Occupancy Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 27 2011:
Along with paying befitting tributes to all those Manipuris who sacrificed their lives fighting against British for the sake of safeguarding the independence of Manipur, the 6th Occupancy Observation Day was held at GM Hall here today.
Organised under the aegis of Occupancy Day Observation Committee, the observance function was attended by Agriculture Minister Ph Parijat Singh as chief guest, Chairman of ADC Tamenglong G Soihem Haomei as president and Senior Grade Lecturer P Inakhunbi Devi, principal of TG Higher Secondary School K Sumati Devi and editor Mangisana as guests of honour.
Speaking at the occasion, Minister Parijat explained that Occupancy Day is being observed because it is on his day of April 27 in 1891 that Manipur became a colony of the British.
The Minister said that Manipur was a peaceful and independent kingdom.
But the British took advantage of disunity among the Manipuri princes and took control over the administration of Manipur.
So along with paying respect to the departed Manipuri heroes who fought against the British for the sake of safeguarding the independence of Manipur, we should learn lessons from the past and work for development of both the hill and valley areas of Manipur.
Shouting slogans for unity between the hill and the valley people would be meaningless without ensuring development of the hill areas as well.
The Government of India has been sanctioning financial assistance for the development of the State.
So, more fund could be allotted for development of the hill areas on par with the valley areas, the Minister suggested.
Among others who spoke at the occasion, principal of TG Higher Secondary School K Sumati Devi pointed out that standard of education in Government schools has come down over the years as the teachers have not been performing their duties properly.