Manipur's Chief Minister Pledges Support to Bomb Attack Victims and Honors WWII Casualties
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Imphal, April 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Manipur, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, emphasized the need for peace and cooperation among citizens during a public address on Monday. He highlighted that disruptions such as bandhs have a negative impact on daily wage earners and the broader community.
Singing the praises of unity and social responsibility, the Chief Minister spoke while inaugurating a memorial stone in Khurai Chingambam Leikai, located in Imphal East. This stone commemorates the victims of the Japanese aerial bombing on April 20, 1943, which occurred during World War II.
This year marks the 83rd anniversary of this tragic event, which is referred to as the Khurai Chingangbam Mandop Aerial Bombing.
In light of the recent bomb attack on April 7 in Tronglaobi, Bishnupur district, that resulted in the deaths of two young children and injuries to their mother, Singh assured that the government is taking this incident very seriously.
He noted that discussions with the Joint Action Committee have been initiated to address the community's concerns.
The Chief Minister reiterated the commitment of the state government to support the bereaved family, including the proposal to offer state employment to both parents of the deceased children.
Reflecting on the tragic loss of innocent lives during the war, Singh expressed sorrow over the painful memories tied to the Khurai Chingangbam Mandop incident, which claimed over a hundred lives and left an indelible mark on the Manipuri community.
During the ceremony, he led the attendees in a Tarpan ritual to honor the souls lost.
Singh also highlighted the historical importance of the Battle of Imphal, fought between the Allied forces and the Japanese Army, which resulted in over 20,000 casualties.
He remarked, "Such commemorations serve as reminders of the tragic chapters in our past."
Regarding the suggestion to recognize the bombing site as a heritage site, the Chief Minister pledged that the government would consider this proposal seriously. A commemorative souvenir was also unveiled during the event.
Furthermore, Singh laid the foundation stone for a Women Market Shed at New Checkon, Imphal, aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and improving facilities for women vendors.
The event saw participation from Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, distinguished guests, members of the Chingangbam Mandop Sevayat Committee, and representatives from the 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation, among others.