Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 29 2008:
As in the previous years, All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj observed the 28th Meira Paibi Numit (Meira Paibi Day) today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen.
The main feature of the observance attended by a large number of people was offering of tributes to late Meira Paibi activists who championed for human rights protection.
The observance was graced by president of the All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj K Taruni, president of the All Manipur Tammi Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup S Momon, president of the Kabui Mothers' Association Kakomlunglu Kamei, president of the Momnu Irik Khombi AK Janaki, human rights activist Kim Gangte and president of the United Manipuri Muslim Women's Association Sitara Begum as presidium members.
Giving key-note address of the function, general secretary of the All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj Th Ramani said that the Meira Paibi movement grew up spontaneously for protection of human rights of innocent civilians.
She also recalled about the brutal incidents of Patsoi Langjing in 1980 as well as the strong voice raised by womenfolk against such incidents.
Ramani claimed that Meira Paibis managed to rescue two individuals from security personnel on December 29, 1980 after they were pulled up.
It is in commemoration of that day that the Meira Paibi Day is observed today, she said.
K Taruni called upon Meira Paibi activists not to safeguard the true identity of Meira Paibi movement and to be cautious against any force misusing the movement.
Kakomlunglu Kamei while lamenting the inability to elect two women MLAs to the State Assembly, asserted that women MLAs/Ministers can be elected provided the Meira Paibis stand united on the matter.
Commenting on the lack of a clear vision among Meira Paibis, Kim Gangte emphasised on the importance of educating daughters.
Sitara Begum advocated unity among the Meira Paibi organisations so as to strengthen the Meira Paibi movement.
Former Macha Leima president Kh Ibetombi asserted that the disunity among the Meira Paibi organisations is a result of political influence.
She further called upon all to ward off political influence in the Meira Paibi movement.
CADA advisor Joy Nongmaithem, president of the Nongchup Imphal Meira Paibi Th Rashi, president of the Thoubal District United Women's Development Organisation Thaja and CADA Bishnupur district president Bimol also spoke on the occasion.