Imphal, May 28: In commemoration of the massive rally taken out by womenfolk on May 28, 1980 against the excesses of the security forces, Meira Paibi Numit (Meira Paibi Day) was observed at GM Hall here today.

The May 28, 1980 rally was staged to condemn the the atrocities of the security forces on the innocent people in the name of launching counter insurgency operation at Patsoi-Langjing area during April-May of 1980.The Meira Paibi Day observance function held under the aegis of Meira Paibi Observation Committee, formed jointly by Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba, Manipur (PLMPAM); Meira Paibi Welfare Association, Kangleipak (MEPWAK) and All Manipur Women Voluntary Association (AMWOVA) were also organised at 15 different parts of the State including Moreh and Jiribam today.

The main function held at GM Hall here was attended by AMUCO advisor Thounaojam Iboyaima, PLMPAM president Longjam Memchoubi Devi, MEPWAK president Moirangthem Keinahanbi Devi and former dean of Social Science, Manipur University Prof Ksh Bimola Devi as presidium members.

Giving the key note address, organisation secretary of MEPWAK M Premila recalled that Meira Paibi movement took shape from the mass protest launched by the womenfolk against the excesses of the security forces during April and May in 1980.The significance of the movement has not been lost.

On the contrary its relevance is felt all the more.

Speaking at the occasion, Kuki Mothers' Association president Rose Mangsi noted that though Meira Paibi movement was launched primarily against the excesses of the security forces with the demand for repealing AFSPA, 1958, it is time for the Meira Paibis to raise their voice against corruption as well.

In his address, Prof Dhanabir Laishram of Department of Political Science, MU observed that Manipuri society would have degenerated without the Meira Paibi movement.

It can be regarded as the third Nupi Lan despite the attempts being made by some group of people to misuse the movement for their own vested interest, he added.

Prof Ksh Bimola said the importance of Meira Paibis should not be undermined in a conflict situation like Manipur.

Unity and integrity among the various Meira Paibi bodies would also definitely help in achieving its purpose, she added.

Meira Paibi Observation Committee and Apunba Nupi Lup, Lairenkabi also jointly observed the 8th Meira Paibi Numit at Lairenkabi Community cum Drama Hall today.

Paying homage to Sinam Ongbi Priyari who sacrificed her life during the Meira Paibi agitation by observing two minutes silence and taking the pledge to strengthen the movement marked the observance.

Comment