BJP MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha Singh on June 18 stressed that unity among the people is the strongest weapon to overcome any challenge facing Manipur, while paying tribute to the 18 martyrs of the June 18, 2001 uprising.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the observance of the 25th Great June Uprising Day, also marked as Unity Day, Ibomcha paid floral tributes to the 18 brave individuals who lost their lives during the mass protest against the inclusion of the phrase “without territorial limit” in the ceasefire agreement between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M).

The BJP legislator said patriotism and nationalism stand above all else, adding that those who sacrifice their lives for the state and the nation attain immortality through their service.

“Any person who dies or makes sacrifices for the state is the luckiest one and remains immortal. If we truly love our state, we should be ready to sacrifice for the state or the country,” Ibomcha said.

Highlighting the importance of collective strength, he said unity among the people becomes crucial whenever the territorial integrity and existence of the state come under threat. He asserted that any crisis can be successfully tackled if the people remain united, irrespective of their differences.

Meanwhile, MLA Sapam Nishikanta also attended the commemorative event and paid floral tributes to the 18 martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of Manipur’s territorial integrity.

Nishikanta emphasised the need to promote peace, love and understanding among different communities, stating that harmony and mutual trust are essential for restoring normalcy and ensuring lasting peace in the state.

The Great June Uprising Day is observed annually in Manipur to honour the 18 people who were killed during the historic protest of June 18, 2001, which remains a significant milestone in the state's movement to safeguard its territorial integrity.