Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 31 2009:
Pointing out that India is facing external as well as internal threats with similar situation besieging Manipur, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh has given a clarion call to the people to remain vigilant and unitedly combat disruptive forces.
Speaking as chief guest at the 25th death anniversary of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi at Manipur Rifles Parade Ground today, Ibobi said owing to certain States facing secessionist movement there is constant need for the citizens to stay on the alert to protect the country from destructive elements.
Every year like in other parts of the country, manipur also observes death anniversary of the assassinated Prime Minister as 'National De-dedication Day'.
Manipur too, he said, is besieged with problems with certain elements continuously campaigning to dismantle and distort territorial as well as emotional integrity of the State.
Amid presence of SPF council of Ministers, MLAs as well as civil and police officials, the Chief Minister said there is urgent need for unity among the people as campaigns of certain destructive forces is detrimental to the aspiration of Indira Gandhi for a strong and united nation.
Pointing out that Indira Gandhi was only not only a committed Prime Minister of india but was a global figure, he said the first woman Prime Minister of india had a vision to establish an egalitarian society by improving living standard of the socially and economically deprived communities of India.
While calling upon all concerned for a renewed pledge to protect unity and integrity of the country, Ibobi said to ensure emotional and territorial integrity of manipur there is need for concerted effort and sacrificial spirit to thwart diabolic agenda of disruptive elements.
Describing Indira Gandhi's assassination as a great loss for the country, power Minister T Phungzathang also recounted that Manipur was accorded Statehood status when she was India's Prime Minister.