Nupi Lan function State Govt salutes spirit of Manipuri womenfolk
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 12 2013: Comme-morative functions of Nupi Lan, the epochal uprising by Manipuri women against the then British rulers, were organised today by the Government of Manipur, NGOs and women's organisations at different parts of the State and beyond.

At Nupi Lan Memorial Complex, near the General Post Office, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh led the gathering in offering floral tributes to the statue, which reminisces the 1904 and 1939 uprising against the anti-people policy of the british rulers.

Describing the events as uprisings against monopolies of the wealthy section of the society as well as for the welfare of the future generation, the Chief Minister said valour of Manipuri women of that era will forever remain unmatched anywhere in the world.

Stating that the present generation should draw inspiration from the acts of the Manipuri women, he maintained that only when aspiration of the departed mothers for a progressive society could be translated into reality it will serve as the true tribute to them.

Chief Minister and Deputy CM at the Commemorative functions of Nupi Lan

As functional president Deputy CM Gaikhangam said Nupi Lan observance is an opportunity for the present generation to remember the determination and unflinching resolve of the manipuri mothers in combating anti-social elements.

Conceding that the supreme sacrifice made by the mothers was for the betterment of the present generation, Gaikhangam also regretted negligible presence of Government employees at the function.

Expressing strong resentment against poor turn up of Government employees at such important functions he said it reflects lack of enthusiasm by Government employees should be assessed.

The DyCM also said possibility of punitive action against recalcitrant employees in the future cannot be ruled out.

Works minister Dr kh Ratankumar, Agriculture Minister Md Abdul Nasir, MLAs, top civil and security officials also attended the function.

While opening and closing songs were presented by Shree Shree Bal Mukunda Government Music College students, a play based on events leading to the women's uprisings was staged by the artistes of Nupi Lan Memorial Association and Nupi Lan & Khongjom War Memorial Society.

According to history, the women revolted against the then British empire officials for artificial scarcity of rice particularly during the harvest season.

At Rup Mahal Theatre, Nupi Lan observance was held with the staging of 'Nupi Lan' drama, written by M Biramangol Singh and directed by O Biramangol Singh.

IMC A Nimaichand and Theatre chairman K Heramani were the chief guest and functional president respectively.