Imphal, September 21: Manipur today joined rest of the world in observing the International Day of Peace giving a clarion call for restoration of peace and harmony in society.

The main function was held under the aegis of Humanist Party of India, Manipur State Council at the conference hall of Hotel Excellency here with former High Court Justice and Legal & Political Advisor of Humanist Party, Manipur RK Manisana and former IPS officer and cultural advisor of Humanist Party Manipur Waikhom Damodor as chief guest and president respectively.

Speaking at the occasion, RK Manisana explained that the main objective of observing the International Day of Peace is to ring out the global message of 'cease fire' and usher in peace and harmony.

Affiliated to Humanist International, London, it is the primary aim of the Humanist Party of India, Manipur State Council to bring about peace and harmony in Society, he said, while calling upon all the militant outfits in the State to enter into a ceasefire on this day with the Government of India.

In his presidential address, Waikhom Damodor observed that peace has remained an illusive thing in Manipur after some groups of people took up arms and started fighting against India over the controversial issue merger of Manipur.

There can be peace in Manipur only when a permanent solution to the problem can be brought about, he said.

The International Day of Peace was also observed by the United Religious InitiativeURI), Manipur Co-operation Circle at Manipur Press Club here.

The main highlight of the event include discourse given by various religious leaders, observing one minute silence praying for world peace and organising a symposium on the theme of 'United Religious Initiative's Vision towards harmony and peace'.

Padmashree RK Jhalajit, URI president Meisnam Ibohal and former MLA Dr M Nara were respectively chief guest, president and guest of honour of the observance function.

The chief guest also released a booklet of URI at the occasion.

Comment