Imphal, August 13: Governor Gurbachand Singh Jagat and Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh led the State in paying tributes to Thangal General and Bir Tikendrajit who were executed by the British on August 13, 1891 on charges of waging war against the Queen of England marking the 117th Patriots Day observance held at Bir Tikendrajit Park at the heart of Imphal here today.

A contingent of Manipur Rifles also offered guard of honour and gun salute to the martyrs.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor who attended the function as chief guest, said the sacrifice and the deeds of the martyrs would continue to inspire not just the present generation but also the generations to come in the future.

Mentioning the case of Monika, the Governor observed that the system of the doping test conducted on Monika needs to be verified and the truth should be allowed to prevail.

Necessary steps should also be taken up to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future, he added.

Delivering his presidential address, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh noted that it is the bounden duty of each and every Manipuri to pay respect to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the sake of motherland.

In connection with the case of Monika, the Chief Minister said consequent to the pressures exerted on the Centre, a committee headed by Union Sports Minister MS Gill has been set up to probe in the matter.

The incident has hurt not only the sentiments of the people of Manipur but has also demoralise the entire sporting fraternity of the country.

So, the matter should be investigated the responsibility fixed, the Chief Minister said.

Prior to the function at Bir Tikendrajit Park, the Governor and the Chief Minister also led Council of Ministers, Deputy Speaker of State Assembly, MLAs, Chief Secretary', top officials and Police and Army, heads of various Departments and other important personalities and invitees in offering-floral tributes to the martyrs at Kangla.

Earlier in the morning, the Chief Minister led his Council of Ministers and other top officials in paying tributes at Hicham Yaicham Pat where the mortal remains of Bir Tikendrajit have been laid to rest.

Afterward, floral tributes were also paid at the temple of Thangal General located in side Palace Compound.

At the occasion of Patriots' Day observance, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh has also dedicated the newly constructed south extension of the Bir Tikendrajit park today.

The extension had been con structed by PDA at an estimated cost of around 1.70 crores.